During the training, he learned many valuable lessons, particularly about the importance of knowing and owning his story. Even though he is living with HIV and not on PreP, the training provided him with essential knowledge about PreP that he now shares with others. He realised that his personal story is his strength—it’s what allows him to have this job and share his experiences without feeling shame or embarrassment. He also learned that being on ART is like a marriage—there is no separating from it. He even wished that PreP had been available earlier in his life. The training was challenging, with a lot to take in, but over time he understood its importance. When he began working in the field, he appreciated how well-prepared he felt, as much of what he encountered had already been covered in training. The relationship between the trainers and the coaches was strong and positive, fostering an environment of learning and growth. He bonded well with the other coaches, feeling as if they had known each other for years, which made the process even more rewarding.

One of the challenges he has observed is that many men avoid going to clinics because the clinics often don’t keep to time, which can be discouraging. He appreciates that the coach program is designed specifically for men and their unique needs. Despite his love for the job, he acknowledges that it’s not perfect. His ability to succeed depends on the involvement of others, and he doesn’t work in isolation.