Tsakani – Xolani Ginindza and his co-host, Lebogang Mochadibane, recently hosted a successful Men’s Conference at the Faranani Multipurpose Centre.

The idea was to bring men together in a safe and empowering space where they could share conversations, advice, and insightful topics.

“The event was created with the aim of empowering men and encouraging them to engage in open dialogue about issues affecting them, including mental health, relationships, identity, and leadership,” said Ginindza.

The conference focused on promoting positive masculinity, encouraging emotional well-being, and equipping men with tools for personal and professional growth. Through interactive discussions and motivational talks, it aimed to challenge harmful stereotypes and inspire men to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

“Our goal with this conference was to remind men that it is okay to seek help, to grow, and to be vulnerable. We want to build a community of men who support one another, take accountability, and become better fathers, partners, and leaders in society,” Ginindza explained.

Guest speaker Mpho Nkosi touched on the topic of men’s character and behaviour, noting that it is a broad subject. He highlighted how society has created narrow definitions of what it means to be a man.

“Many of these definitions place men under unnecessary pressure. For example, there is a belief that a man must never take anything from a woman, or that men should not show emotions. These are traditional dogmas that deserve to be questioned,” he explained.

“Men are human. A man can think, feel, and cry just like everyone else.”

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Nkosi added that when men suppress their emotions, it often leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms, bottled-up pain, and sometimes violence, contributing to gender-based violence (GBV). “The solution lies in changing how we think and talk about men,” he said.

Another speaker, Ntokozo Mngomezulu, also spoke on men’s character and behaviour, drawing from his own experiences.

“For me as a young man, it is important to address the need for men to constantly reinvent themselves and work on their inner growth. When a man reinvents himself, he becomes more competent, and competence builds confidence,” he said.

“Beliefs can influence the way a person speaks, reasons, and reacts. The way a person is raised also plays a crucial role in shaping their character.”

Mngomezulu shared his own story, explaining that he grew up in a Christian-based background, which helped shape who he is today.

“Where I come from, fighting was not part of the solution. Our life experiences are not the same. We are born and raised in families outside of our choice. Our parents made decisions for us – from sending us to school to guiding us through values.

“School itself might have shaped who we became, and friends may also have contributed to the way our character was formed,” he said.

Reflecting on his upbringing, he acknowledged the challenges but emphasised hope and growth.

“We do not choose communities; we were just raised there. The small two-room house I grew up in was not by choice, but that does not mean that is how my life will play out. My kids may not grow up in that same background,” he added.

His message was one of hope and self-belief.

“Focus on your own journey and do things in your own way without any competition. Give yourself a chance, grace, and allow yourself to grow.

“Become strong, take risks, and take that chance to get a degree. Be competent and do not throw words around like, ‘I am a man.’ Let your actions speak louder than anything you can say.”

He encouraged men to make better choices and decisions, urging them to consume constructive content. Among the guests at the event was Lucas Mgiba, a member of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), serving under the leadership of President King Leruo Mokoena.

His presence highlighted the importance of traditional leadership in addressing men’s issues and promoting cultural values within modern society.