Table 2 Themes and categories

Embracing benefits of participating in an HIV vaccine trial

Reducing risky sexual behaviour

Overcoming fear of HIV testing

Encountering and handling mistrust in an HIV vaccine trial

Privilege of complete medical check-ups

Changed to better health-seeking behaviour

Dealing with attitude of mistrust of non-trial health care providers

Confronting discouragement from colleagues

Convincing the family

Pride of fulfilment and self-respect