Young men engaged on constructive masculinity
The #BeFree Youth Campus hosted the #BeFreeBallers: Next Gen Men in Windhoek on Thursday to promote constructive masculinity and emotional wellbeing for young men. The event hosted by the One Economy Foundation marked International Day of the Boy Child, creating a platform for discussions on mental health, accountability and personal growth of young men. The […] The post Young men engaged on constructive masculinity appeared first on The Namibian.
Black News 
The #BeFree Youth Campus hosted the #BeFreeBallers: Next Gen Men in Windhoek on Thursday to promote constructive masculinity and emotional wellbeing for young men.
The event hosted by the One Economy Foundation marked International Day of the Boy Child, creating a platform for discussions on mental health, accountability and personal growth of young men.
The conversations included engagement stations focused on mentoring youth men on communication, sexual and reproductive health, identity, purpose and personal growth.
Participants received information and engaged in conversations around sexual and reproductive health, routine testing and informed health decisions.
The director of operations at the One Economy Foundation, Saddam Biwa, highlighted the importance of creating spaces where young men feel safe enough to speak openly about the pressures and challenges they face.
“Silence is expensive. Being able to say ‘this is what I’m going through’ matters. Spaces like this exist so young men can engage honestly, support one another, unpack real psychological and psychosocial challenges to shape a healthier vision of masculinity,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, SanlamAllianz investments chief executive Tega Shiimi yaShiimi encouraged attendees to understand that mistakes do not define their future, and that accountability and intentional change through healing and therapy can lead to success and purpose.
“I have made mistakes and learned from them. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. Growth comes when you finally reflect, take accountability and decide what kind of man you want to become,” he said.
Doctor Schalk Botha warned against harmful ideas of masculinity that discourage men from expressing emotions or seeking help.
“We all feel vulnerable in life. Thinking we must be strong or dominant can keep us from sharing and seeking help,” he said.
Advocate and mentor, Rachimo Haradoeb reflected on how poor decision-making contributed to choices that led him to a 35-year prison sentence, urging young men to seek support before making harmful decisions.
“Make peace with yourself and do not be afraid to seek support. If you do not find support at home, there are churches, organisations and people willing to help you. You do not have to carry everything alone,” he said.
The Foundation also has weekly programmes at the #BeFree Campus, including #MajitaMondays, every Monday for young men between 13 to 35 for conversations on constructive masculinity, emotional wellbeing, accountability and personal growth.
The post Young men engaged on constructive masculinity appeared first on The Namibian.
