What is your name and where are you from?

Estere Mutero, from the Parirenyatwa site in Zimbabwe

When did you join the ACTG? 

I have been a member since 2006

Why did you get involved with the ACTG, and what are some of the things you’ve done as a member?

I got involved because I’m a member of one the most affected populations, and also because I am HIV positive. I’ve known my status since January of 1987, after an operation. Finding out was very painful. I was stigmatized by the doctors, my relatives, and even my loved ones. But thanks to the ACTG and the A5175 study that was enrolling women, I am here. 

Describe your community.

My community is now full of advocates and their families. We raise community awareness on child marriage, have support groups for girls and women, and ensure the elderly are not forgotten.

What are the most important treatment issues to your community?

A cure for HIV! We’d also like to see more studies for cancer, TB, and malaria.

How do you want your work in the ACTG to be remembered?

I want to be remembered for raising awareness about women aging with HIV. I also want to be remembered as an advocate for more studies for women. 

What are your future hopes for the ACTG and HIV research?

Nothing is too difficult if we—the community and the researchers—work hand in hand together. We will reach the cure!!