Miguel from Colombia talks about the ease of HIV testing, cruising and finding his community away from home.
Hola! My name is Miguel (he/him). I’m 31 years old. I’m Colombian, and I came to Australia in 2022.
What are the differences in HIV prevention methods between Australia and your home country?
One of the big differences I found here is that condoms are not as common if you’re taking PrEP. Back in Colombia, you are expected to use condoms. It’s the norm. People are starting to use PrEP, but it’s not as popular yet.
What are the differences in sex and hookup culture between Australia and your home country?
Because there’s still so much fear [in Colombia], I feel like ‘riskier’ practices like cruising are not as frequent back home. I’m pretty sure it happens everywhere, but I’ve experienced it more openly here.
How do you take care of your sexual health now?
I have regular sexual health check-ups.
“It’s a matter of responsibility for me. I found my way to a sexual health centre, where I get access to HIV and STI testing for free.”
If I’m honest, it was even easier here than in Colombia.
Coming here, it’s a different health system, so understanding that was another thing. I was trying to figure out how to take care of myself without worrying about it. With easy HIV and STI tests, I can enjoy my time here now.
How do you maintain family connections and cultural values away from home?
I’m very close with my family. It’s a very South American thing to do. I talk to them every day. It’s my way of staying connected.
My culture is also something I can share with other Colombians in Australia. Sometimes, we get together, celebrate, and eat Colombian food.
“It’s a way to feel at home away from it.”
It was hard at the beginning. It took time, maybe six months, to start making friends. I used apps to meet people and go out for coffee or lunch. It was interesting for me, because I’ve always been very introverted, but I had to put myself out there. Now I get to see life from so many perspectives. It’s very enriching.
How do you balance cultural values with your queer lifestyle?
I feel like Australia is so embracing of queer culture. You feel so comfortable just being you. Back home, you have to adjust and keep a low profile.
When I got here, I just felt free. I’m not worried about holding hands or kissing in public. I’ve actually had the opposite response. People have approached me saying, “You look really cute together,” or people would smile when they see you kissing your partner.
What advice would you give to someone who is just arriving in Australia as a gay migrant?
Explore. Australia gives you so many opportunities to be you, probably in ways you never thought were possible.
You can access sexual health care; they’re available, easy and usually free.
“You can enjoy your sexual life while also taking care of yourself and others.”
Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
We thank Miguel for sharing his story! You can find a service for an HIV and STI test near you using our map.
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