Lentswe La Boraro ka Laboraro founder Mantala Nkoatse is determined to give boys and men the emotional safety rarely afforded them in South African communities.

Growing up in Alexandra, she witnessed how trauma, poverty, violence and emotional neglect shape young lives. “Many boys and men are expected to be strong but are rarely given safe spaces to express vulnerability without judgment,” she said.

That realisation led to a dedicated boys’ and men’s wellness session that brought together 70 participants of different ages. The day began with yoga, meditation and mindful breathing to help everyone settle and regulate their nervous systems. Guided dialogue followed, allowing participants to reflect on their experiences while listening respectfully to one another. The session closed with performance art.

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“Bringing together movement, dialogue and creativity allowed people to engage emotionally, physically and mentally,” Mantala explained. “Art allows people to communicate experiences that words sometimes cannot express.”

Participants spoke openly about absent fathers, unemployment, violence, substance abuse, peer pressure and the constant pressure to appear strong. Topics such as depression, fear, shame and asking for help proved more difficult at first. Once trust was established, however, many became more willing to share honestly.

Older men played a key role as listeners and mentors. “Their presence reminds younger participants that healing is a lifelong journey,” Mantala said. Intergenerational connection, she believes, helps break cycles of silence.

The response exceeded expectations. Younger boys participated confidently alongside older men, breathing, reflecting and creating together. “Seeing them reminded me that healing is possible when communities intentionally create spaces for connection,” she said.

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Mantala wants the sessions to become a regular community programme rather than a once-off event. She hopes to partner with schools, community organisations, healthcare professionals, artists and local leaders, and to introduce mentorship programmes, creative workshops and family-centred healing initiatives.

Funding remains a major barrier, as does the stigma still attached to men’s mental health. Yet partnerships and community support have kept the work going.

Her message to parents, schools and organisations is clear: “Healing boys is not only about helping individuals, but it is about strengthening families and communities. When we intentionally nurture boys today, we invest in healthier men, stronger families and more compassionate communities tomorrow.”

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