Breaking the silence on HIV, stigma and love
Living positively, embracing identity, and breaking stigma – one Gauteng man’s powerful story.
Stigma still surrounds HIV in South Africa, even in 2025.
This week’s episode of Don’t Hold Back tackles it head-on in a heartfelt conversation between host Nozibele Qamngana-Mayaba and guest Phenyo Moletsane, a proud Black, gay man who lives openly with HIV.
Phenyo shares the reality behind the headlines: from the fear and judgement people still face, to the moments of liberation that come with owning your story.
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He opens up about dating while HIV-positive, the micro-aggressions that can cut deeper than outright prejudice, and why mental health support matters just as much as medication.
The episode is an invitation to see beyond stereotypes and to understand the very human experiences behind a diagnosis. Whether you’re living with HIV, know someone who is, or simply want to challenge the stigma, this conversation will open your eyes.
Watch or listen to Don’t Hold Back below:
Meanwhile, in the Season 3 launch episode of Don’t Hold Back, Nozibele sat down with powerhouse speaker Sibulele Sibaca-Nomnganga to unpack a life marked by profound loss - and even greater triumph.
Sibulele lost both parents in childhood, a grief that shaped her early life. But that was only the beginning. From navigating miscarriage and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) to becoming a twin mom and respected leader in the NGO world, Sibulele shared the truth behind her strength, and the choice to be visible and vulnerable.
LISTEN TO | WATCH the launch episode of Season 3 below, or on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Don’t Hold Back is an internationally recognised podcast created by Jacaranda FM, East Coast Radio and Deutsche Welle. Each episode tackles taboo topics and real-life challenges faced by South Africans under 35 - from identity and culture to mental health and relationships.
MORE ABOUT NOZIBELE QAMNGANA-MAYABA:
Nozibele Qamngana-Mayaba is an award-winning author, HIV activist, certified life coach, and TV presenter. She is best known for her bestselling book I Am Still Me and for hosting the groundbreaking docu-series #YesIHaveHIV, which earned critical acclaim for its impact on HIV awareness in South Africa. A respected public speaker and social commentator, Nozibele uses her platforms to challenge stigma, empower young people, and lead honest conversations about identity, health, and personal growth.