Fight for Peace has partnered with Movember to launch a new podcast that brings together young people, youth workers, combat sports athletes and men’s wellbeing experts to explore men’s mental health, masculinity and the pressures young people face today.
When I was first asked to co-host, I was hesitant.
Even after saying yes, I still had doubts.
But the opportunity meant so much to me because it showed me that my voice has value and is recognised by the people around me.
I felt I couldn't let another obstacle hold me back from being part of something that could support the wellbeing of younger men who, like me, need someone to help them embrace the side of themselves that society often expects them to hide.
Men’s mental health is important to me because of my own experiences.
Emotional neglect left me spending a lot of time in my own head, which often left me feeling discouraged and inadequate.
I felt that way simply because I was a boy who didn't fit the status quo of what society defines a ‘man’ to be.
Man Talk - Fight for Peace's male personal development group - challenges that definition.
What I hope the show will do is help young men and women understand that men are emotionally complex, and that the stories shared by our guests will show the different ways men develop and carve their own paths in life.
I think the podcast could give them an idea of what a role model and a healthy male relationship are meant to look like.
Michael, the podcast lead host, is a Fight for Peace coach, youth worker and fellow Man Talk member who has always been someone who challenges my opinions and outlook on the world.
Every time we get to dive into conversations, I feel like I'm growing in knowledge thanks to his perspective as a coach and as a Black mentor I can look up to.
As someone from a similar background, we can relate to so much despite our differing opinions, but I also believe that's what makes us work together so well, too.
The podcast launches in late November, so follow Fight for Peace’s social media to be ready for when the content drops.
If you’d like to join the Man Talk group, it runs every Wednesday 5.30pm till 7pm, at their Academy in North Woolwich.
- Yedidya is a member and Life Champions Coach of Fight for Peace (fightforpeace.net).
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