(Xhosa with English subtitles)
Abandonment, loss, and the independence that followed prepared Andile for the difficult choices he would later make as a young adult. When he fathered a child with his girlfriend, her parents accepted him. And when he tested positive for HIV, his girlfriend pledged to be true to him, no matter what. He now finds solace in a support group and encourages other men to know their status and protect their partners.
Key points to consider in viewing Andile’s story
Many people who test positive for HIV share concerns that they will be rejected by loved ones, when in fact partners are often very supportive and understanding. Andile’s story presents an opportunity to explore how people cope with life’s difficult challenges in a way that enables them to be active in their communities.