Men and boys from across Antigua and Barbuda came together on Friday for the Department of Gender Affairs’ annual International Men’s Day Forum, a half-day gathering dedicated to open dialogue, reflection, and empowerment under the theme “Supporting Men and Boys – Fostering Integrity, Compassion, and Resilience.”

The event, held at Beachlimerz on Fort James, coincided with the global observance of International Men’s Day on November 19. The day celebrates the contributions of men and boys while providing a platform to address the personal and societal challenges they face. Organisers said this year’s theme underscored the importance of creating environments where men and boys can grow with integrity, express compassion, and build resilience.

The forum opened with an interactive ice-breaker called “Vote with Your Feet,” prompting participants to move across the room in response to various prompts. The exercise helped break down barriers, spark conversation, and foster a sense of community among attendees.

The first of the morning’s feature presentations focused on health and mental wellness, led by Sydney Retemyer. He spoke candidly about the silence that often surrounds men’s emotional struggles and encouraged participants to seek support, make use of available resources, and prioritise regular health checks.

The second session, presented by Colin John Jenkins, examined what it means to be a man in today’s world. He explored the influence of role models, both prominent figures and everyday men, and discussed how values such as respect, empathy, and accountability shape positive masculinity.

The final session, delivered by Roland Moore, centred on fatherhood and the evolving expectations of male caregivers. He highlighted the importance of emotionally present and supportive fathers and urged men to model healthy relationships within their homes and communities.

Throughout the forum, participants shared their experiences, raised questions, and reflected on how families, institutions, and communities can better support the well-being of men and boys. Discussions touched on stereotypes, communication barriers, mental health stigma, and the importance of strong networks of support.

Project Officer Ashlea Ambris described the forum as a meaningful space for honest engagement. “Today’s forum was about creating a safe, honest space for men and boys, one where they could learn, unlearn, and truly connect,” she said. “Supporting male well-being strengthens families, communities, and the nation.”

The Department of Gender Affairs expressed appreciation to all presenters, partners, and participants, reaffirming its commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing the needs of men and boys through ongoing advocacy, community programmes, and support initiatives.