SEBOKENG.- The Omphile Cognitive Development Centre celebrated Men’s International Day in style at the centre in Sebokeng on Monday morning.

The main purpose of this event was to raise awareness about the issues that young men experience on a daily basis such as gender-based violence and substance abuse, among others.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Kopano Mitane from Omphile Cognitive Development Centre said most men undergo abuse and choose to remain silent because they fear being shamed in public, humiliated, or labeled as not being men enough.

“In case people are not aware, men are also victims of gender-based violence but they don’t talk about it. This event is to say to men, that we are here for you and we know your challenges, but we can only help if you come forward.”

“I know it is because we grew up in a community where were told men should be strong. But we are quickly losing men because some of them take their own lives when ‘the going gets tough’. As we celebrate Men’s International Day we would like to encourage men to communicate to see how best we can help them. Lastly, also want to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors, Hungry Lion,” said Mitane.

Some of the stakeholders and individuals who came to support this initiative were Pule Motsoalei from Correctional Services, Sam Mamasedi from Tshiamolo (LGBTQ), Pule Moloi from Father In Action, Tshediso Ditha from Albertina Sisulu Clinics in Zone 11, Happy Lethoba also from Correctional Services, and Vuyisele Faku from Lesedi La Batjha.

The day’s main speaker was Hendricks Megoe from the Mazibuko Royal Traditional Kingdom.

All men who attended this educational event were presented with certificates of attendance.