November 19th marks International Men’s Day, and it’s a day where issues concerning men and boys are amplified and spoken about more. It’s also a day set aside to discuss ways men can improve themselves for the betterment of society.
It’s important that today we recognise men who are making efforts to promote positive ideals in men within societies that often encourage men to engage in ultimately negative behaviors.
Recent years have seen an increase in online male influencers who espouse values that do men more harm than good. Nigeria and other African countries are not exempt from the rise of online “masculinity coaches” whose teachings often revolve around ‘Red Pill’ content full of regressive views on what indeed makes a man a “real man”.
We’d like to use today to celebrate some men on our radar who are creating spaces where young boys can receive mentorship and a space to unburden issues that plague contemporary men and boys.
Solomon Ayodele
Founder, Boys Quarters Africa
Solomon Ayodele is a passionate advocate for boys and men, dedicated to promoting healthy masculinity through his organization, Boys Quarters Africa. As the founder, he has engaged over 500,000 boys and men across five African countries, empowering them to become positive leaders in their communities.
Ayodele’s work focuses on educating, empowering, and advocating for the boy child, with a specific emphasis on addressing issues like toxic masculinity, sexual abuse, and stereotypical masculine leadership. Through Boys Quarters Africa, he has mobilized thousands of men as allies in ending gender-based violence and promoting a more nuanced understanding of masculinity.
Ayodele’s efforts have earned him notable recognition, including the TFAA Prize for Activism & Advocacy at the 19th Future Awards Africa. This award acknowledges his tireless work in promoting positive change and his commitment to creating a more equitable society for all.
As a leader, Ayodele brings over a decade of experience in technology and innovation, which he leverages to drive social impact and mobilize communities. His work with Boys Quarters Africa is a testament to his dedication to creating a better future for boys and men, and his advocacy has made a lasting impact on the lives of many young people.
Amb. Michael Erhayanmen
Founder, Koret Boys Initiative
Ambassador Michael Erhayanmen is a dedicated advocate for boys and men, focusing on promoting healthy masculinity through his organization, Koret Boys Initiative. Established in 2022, the initiative aims to empower boys with essential life skills, emotional intelligence, and positive values.
Erhayanmen’s work involves visiting schools, youth homes, and other institutions in southern Nigeria to engage with teenage boys and discuss topics such as emotions, relationships, behavior patterns, and hygiene. The initiative has already made a significant impact, reaching approximately 1,500 boys across four states.
As a passionate advocate, Erhayanmen draws from his personal experiences and faith to drive his mission. His work with Koret Boys Initiative is driven by a desire to prevent violence against girls and women by addressing its root causes. Erhayanmen’s advocacy extends beyond his organization, as he participates in global forums and discussions on health, advocacy, and boys’ development.
Notably, he serves as Media Editor for the World Journal of Surgery and is an executive committee member of The G4 Alliance. His dedication to cancer advocacy has also seen him participate in international conferences, highlighting his commitment to improving healthcare outcomes.
John Dare Okafor
Founder, Boys Without Borders
John Okafor, also known as Dare Okafor, is a passionate advocate for boys’ rights and the founder of Boys Without Borders NG, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering boys through education, orientation, and advocacy. As a co-founder, Okafor has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s vision and mission, focusing on critical issues affecting boys, such as sexual abuse, toxic masculinity, and emotional well-being. Under his leadership, Boys Without Borders NG has grown to become a prominent voice in boy-child advocacy, engaging with over 1,500 boys across various schools and communities.
Some notable initiatives of Boys Without Borders NG include:
– Project Boys Talk About It: A project where men share their experiences of sexual abuse, providing a safe space for boys to open up and seek help.
– Ibadan Boys Conference: An annual event celebrating the International Day of the Boy Child, featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops to empower boys.
– Chidera Anushiem Essay Competition: An annual essay competition for male undergraduates, promoting critical thinking and writing skills while addressing issues affecting boys’ development.
Okafor’s work with Boys Without Borders NG has made a significant impact in promoting positive change and advocating for the needs and rights of boys in Nigeria.
