Men’s Health Dialogue gets men talking
- Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ University
The platform offered a safe and supportive space for men to learn from one another and speak openly about the challenges they face.
The Operations, Facilities and Management Division (OFMD) hosted a dialogue for male staff under the theme Asikhulumeni, Asakhaneni (Let's Talk, Let's Build). The initiative highlighted the power of conversations and solidarity among men. The sessions took place on 9 and 10 July at the Braamfontein and Parktown campuses, respectively, enabling staff to attend at the campus most convenient for them.
In his message of support, OFMD Director Israel Mogomotsi, reflected on the harmful stereotypes that pressure men to suppress their emotions and shoulder life's burdens in silence. He also highlighted support services such as Life Health Solutions, that are available to all Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ employees.
The keynote speaker, , Centre Manager at Jumbo Mall, Witbank, inspired attendees by sharing his journey. Kgatle went from rummaging in dustbins looking for waste to exchange for money as a waste reclaimer to leading major shopping centres.
His story of resilience, hard work and the power of education serves as a reminder that where you start does not determine your future.
Andiswa Lefakane, a social worker and employee wellness specialist from Life Health Solutions, led an engaging session on finances and mental health. Unpacking the various money personalities, she urged attendees to understand what informs their financial decisions, and seek support when needed.
Attendees used the platform to discuss difficult topics, exchange experiences and left with new life tools. The conversations were mostly in isiZulu and Sesotho, as empowered by the University’s Language Policy. This enabled staff to choose a language they felt most comfortable with when expressing what matters to them. Sign language was also available as OFMD has several staff members who communicate using this official SA language. This also provided assurance that support services offered by the University's Employee Wellness Programme are inclusive, a point stressed by Lefakane during the Q&A session.
Did you know?
The University’s Employee Wellness Programme, offered via Life Health Solutions, provides wellness support to Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ employees and their immediate family members. This service is available free of charge, in all SA languages, all year-round.
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