Pathways to breaking the cycle of HIV stigma: experiences and insights of racialized immigrant communities in the Greater Toronto Area and Niagara Region, Canada

= 15) took part in two gender-based, online focus groups. Based on thematic analysis, we identified five overarching themes: (1) daily challenges with HIV stigma; (2) mental and behavioral repercussions of HIV stigma; (3) turning points and positive coping strategies; (4) systemic and intersecting barriers; and (5) changes through education and peer support. Participants described stigma as a chronic and multifaceted experience that detrimentally affected their sense of self and trust in people and institutions. Yet they also highlighted a shift facilitated by self-care, education, and peer support in local contexts. These findings aim to inform the development of effective community-centred psychosocial interventions that can transform the persistent cycle of HIV stigma into a pathway toward resilience.