Port St. Johns, South Africa
Diagnosed in 2007

When I was sick with shingles, my mom advised me to take an HIV test. I did and it came positive. I told my mom and she was very supportive. She would call me on the phone to ask if was doing OK.

The main challenge was my boyfriend. I had to tell him about my status. When I told him, he didn’t want me anymore. I found love again and decided to be honest and tell him about my status. He also ran away. It happens with every man I meet—they do not want to accept me.

I don’t have a relationship because of my honesty. I am feeling lonely. I need someone who knows everything about HIV.

What three adjectives best describe you?
Honest, beautiful and polite

What is your greatest achievement?
I finished my matric (high school).

What is your greatest regret?
I regret having unprotected sex.

What keeps you up at night?
The thought of who would support my daughter if I die

If you could change one thing about living with HIV, what would it be?
I would change its ability to be transmitted to others.

What is the best advice you ever received?
Stay positive in life—life is too short.

What person in the HIV/AIDS community do you most admire?
My mom

What is your motto?
Tomorrow will not be the same as yesterday.

If you had to evacuate your house immediately, what is the one thing you would grab on the way out?
My phone

If you could be any animal, what would you be? And why?
A cat. They are smart and polite.