This paper is based on an international study, HIV Prevention for Rural Youth (HP4RY) 2008-2012, designed to examine the state of, and teach about, sexual health and HIV/AIDS in Edo State, Nigeria. The paper focuses on the mixed methods used in this study, paying attention to the meaning of collaboration and participation in research in a cross-continental setting. Additionally, the paper considers the complexities of engaging in decolonizing and respectful methodological approaches in these settings. Drawing on specifics from the mixed methods and details from the relevant literature, this paper demonstrates the continued need for cross-continental decolonization and decentralized engagements, specifically when dealing with sensitive topics like sexuality and HIV/AIDS. .