Breaking New Ground: Summit Tackles Modern Masculinity Head-On
In a groundbreaking initiative set to reshape conversations about masculinity, the Empowamen International Men’s Day Summit 2024 will welcome 4,000 men to Johannesburg’s Mosaiek Theatre this year, marking a significant shift in how society addresses men’s mental health and well-being.
Unlike traditional men’s conferences, this pioneering event cuts through surface-level discussions to address crucial issues affecting modern men, including mental health, fatherlessness, and the devastating impact of suicide rates among males.
“At Empowamen, we understand that societal expectations around masculinity have harmed both men and their relationships, leaving many struggling to find safe spaces for vulnerability,” explains Joshua Mtanyelwa, the organization’s spokesperson. “This summit is a place where men are encouraged to unmask their true selves.”
Taking place on November 16, the Empowamen International Men’s Day Summit is a platform that enables frank conversations with men so that they can explore and discuss the issues facing them in today’s world, with a focus on bringing about change.
The statistics driving this initiative are sobering: men are nearly five times more likely to die by suicide than women. This alarming figure isn’t necessarily due to greater despair but often stems from cultural pressures that discourage men from seeking help. The summit’s ‘Zero Suicide in Men’ theme directly challenges harmful beliefs like “boys don’t cry” that have long undermined men’s emotional well-being.
Through expert-led discussions, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking panels, participants will explore challenging questions about self-worth, fatherhood, and the evolution of masculine identity. The event creates a safe space for men to be vulnerable and establish mutual accountability – essential elements often missing from traditional masculine spaces.
This summit represents more than just a conference; it’s the beginning of a movement. By bringing together thousands of men from across the country, Empowamen aims to create a ripple effect that will positively impact families and communities throughout South Africa.
For men seeking to be part of this transformative experience, the summit offers a unique opportunity to join a community dedicated to reshaping masculinity for the better, proving that strength can coexist with emotional openness and vulnerability.
