International Men’s Day: Celebrating the Men in Our Lives

They’ve built cities, families and developed our communities. There’s no doubt about it – there are men in our lives who are truly exceptional.

It’s easy to forget that men too need to be acknowledged and appreciated, which is why 19 November has been earmarked as International Men’s Day. 

What is International Men's Day?

Celebrated in over 60 countries, this day highlights men's and boys' health.  It is aimed at improving gender relations, promotes gender equality and highlights positive male role models in society.

Your Health Matters

Did you know that 2 000 South African men die with prostate cancer every year? By leading a healthy lifestyle and getting regular check-ups, you can reduce your risk of cancer. 

The Movember Campaign, dedicated to raising funds for men affected by prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health problems, recommends the following health tips for men:

• Know your numbers: Keep track of numbers like your weight, blood sugar level, BMI and cholesterol.
• Manage your stress: Managing stress is essential. Try doing things that you enjoy often.
• Exercise: Working out combats stress and contributes to your overall health.
• Eat well: Ensure that you eat a wide range of foods within the five food groups such as fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry and nuts.

Early Detection is Key

Forget painful tests and endless scans. By obtaining just a drop of blood from your finger, your doctor can determine whether you are at risk of developing cancer and whether you need a full medical examination. 

The following interventions can ensure that you remain cancer free:

• Know your family history to determine whether you are at risk.  
• The Cancer Association of South Africa advises men between the ages of 40 and 50 to visit their doctor annually.
• Check for lumps monthly. After a bath or shower roll each testicle gently between each thumb. If you feel anything unusual contact your doctor immediately.

South African Men Speak Up

We caught up with Janez Vermeiren, Katlego Maboe and other local heroes who shared their experiences and thoughts on being a good man.

	Janez Vermeiren, co-host of The Man Cave and Top Billing presenter “International Men’s Day is a great day to celebrate all that we as men should strive every day to be: driven, family-orientated, full of energy and ridiculously good looking.” Click to follow Janez
	Niresh Ramklass, CEO of Cape Town Child Welfare Society  ”We should be part of a solid foundation in our families and our country. Through supporting families and shaping our communities, we need to be better role models so that children can look up to us.” Click to follow Cape Town Child Welfare Society
	Katlego Maboe, Expresso host and artist “We fulfil our roles in society as role models and protectors. Leadership, integrity, respect, love and honour - these should be part of our moral compass and become our inner pursuit. Don't wait for tomorrow to be the man you want to be today!" Click to follow Katlego
	Derick Petersen, CEO of Mellon Educate South Africa “If you are a father, support the needs of your family and your children. Love your wife unconditionally. It’s about living for your family.” Click to follow Mellon Educate
	Patrick Solomons, director at Molo Songololo “We need to empower boys and men to speak out and stand-up against violence, respect women and children, and be non-violent. Men must lead the way together with women and be protectors, not abusers.” Click to follow Molo Songololo
	Marlon Parker, founder of RLabs “We need to start taking responsibility and accountability, which is when we will begin to see change.” Click to follow RLabs