For over two decades, Reverend Theo Khanyile has been a passionate advocate, mainly in empowering men and creating spaces where they can openly discuss their challenges and struggles.

Speaking to the Roodepoort Record, Theo said he has been an activist in many spaces, working with different organisations, including gender equality and sexual reproductive rights.

However, what sparked his interest in the men’s space was the continuous killing, murdering and violence towards women perpetrated by men. He then started conversations, messages and looking into the underlying issues that men are facing, which often lead to these grievous acts.

“Society has taught men to always be providers, to be strong, and not to cry or share their pain. The justice system is also failing in all proportions to protect male victims, and there are often no proper investigations done and false accusations that build anger, and their pain goes unnoticed,” he said.

“If the underlying issues that men are facing are not addressed, it then becomes a repetitive cycle where women also conduct these grievous acts to defend themselves,” he added.

His platforms and advocacy focus on having real conversations with men, with no judgement, and they break the stigma and stereotypes surrounding men.

“Society at large shouldn’t ignore the pain and suffering of men because it doesn’t fit with traditional or societal gender norms. Men are not immune to problems, and they are also human beings.

Through monthly workshops, they encourage each other and address the vulnerabilities men face.

“We need men to actively come out more and be actively involved in such initiatives because it builds us.”

His words of encouragement are to always be involved in the lives of children and those they love.

“Be responsible. Do not hide things. Support each other and hold each other accountable.”

For more information on the workshop, you can contact Theo on 072 214 9974. Additionally, he hosts workshops every third Saturday of the month at Holy Cross in Soweto.