Tailored to Men: Creating Space for them and their challenges
Written by EDYOU FM Staff on November 19, 2025
In our society, men blamed for their struggles and expected to remain silent. Opening up can be seen as a weakness, or worse, they’re labelled with modern-day terms like “beta male.” Today, we pause to observe International Men’s Day, celebrated annually on November 19. This day highlights men’s experiences, challenges, and contributions.
The day is guided by six pillars: recognizing men for their kindness, responsibility, leadership, and the roles they play in their families, communities, and relationships. This year’s theme, Celebrating Men and Boys, focuses on men’s mental health and the importance of positive role models. It encourages conversations around issues that often go unspoken and fosters supportive spaces where men can thrive.
A Brief History
International Men’s Day was first observed in 1999 in Trinidad and Tobago by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh. He chose November 19 to honor his father’s birthday and to commemorate a meaningful moment in the country’s football history. From a local observance, it has grown to over 80 countries, serving as a platform to celebrate positive male role models and raise awareness about men’s emotional and social challenges, including stress, mental health, and suicide.
To explore these challenges in Guyana, we spoke with Pastor Simon Harris, a respected figure in his community, and Shanette Dey, a trained psychologist with a background in General Psychology and Special Education.
Creating Space for Men
Shanette Dey is the facilitator of the annual When Men Speak forum, which she will host again this year on November 22 at Haven Bar and Lounge from 5:30-7:30 PM. The initiative began in 2018, offering men a space to openly share their thoughts and experiences.
Shanette Dey
“What drives me to continue hosting ‘ When Men Speak’ is the feedback from men who say it’s the first time they can voice their concerns and learn from others,” Shanette shared. “It’s about creating a social space where men can learn from one another, discuss real-life challenges, and build emotional awareness.”
This year, men attending the forum will answer situational questions from the audience, giving them the opportunity to discuss real-life experiences beyond structured prompts. Ms. Dey emphasizes that the event is tailored for men, designed to make them feel comfortable, and without force.
Mental Health and Emotional Strength
Shanette highlighted that societal expectations are often what prevents men from addressing their mental health issues. Men are expected to handle responsibilities at home, at work, and in their communities, yet seeking help is often seen as a weakness. Counseling is underutilized, with women overwhelmingly outnumbering men in professional mental health settings.
“At our forums, we encourage men to identify and name their feelings,” Shanette said. “It’s not about ignoring emotions, it’s about managing them, pausing before reacting, setting boundaries, and building healthy outlets. Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.”
A few key takeaways from past forums include:
Shanette also stressed the importance of early education and community support, encouraging organizations like MIND to involve men more actively in discussions and mindfulness practices.
A Pastor’s Perspective
Pastor Simon Harris offered insight from a community and spiritual perspective. He believes that men need mentorship, positive role models, and safe spaces to express themselves.
Pastor Simon Harris
“Supporting men starts at home and continues in schools and communities,” Pastor Harris stated. “We must change the narrative about men’s emotional expression and create environments where they can process and communicate their feelings without judgment.”
He highlighted that recognizing men’s mental health needs, fostering connections, and providing guidance can help men thrive emotionally while fulfilling their responsibilities. Both professionals hope for increased visibility of men engaged in mental health initiatives. Dey highlighted MIND as an NGO promoting mental health awareness, and called for more men to actively participate in discussions and mindfulness practices. Harris emphasized the importance of taking healthy breaks, stepping away from stressful or unhealthy spaces to recharge.“Find a space that is truly healthy for your mental health,” he said. “It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay to seek help.”
International Men’s Day serves as a reminder that men’s struggles, achievements, and mental health deserve recognition and support. Forums like When Men Speak and along with community leaders like Pastor Harris and Shanette Dey are paving the way for a society where men can openly express themselves, build emotional resilience, and thrive in their roles within families and communities.
