UnsilencedMen Contributes to the Men & Women Dialogue 2026
Creating Space for Honest Conversations Around Men's Wellbeing, Relationships and Brotherhood
On 24 August 2026, UnsilencedMen was honoured to participate in the Men & Women Dialogue 2026, held at the Southern Sun Hotel, Arcadia, Pretoria.
The dialogue was held under the theme:
“The Presidency Celebrating Milestone of Freedom: Celebrating freedom through colour, unity and inclusion!”
The programme created an important platform for dialogue, reflection and engagement around issues affecting men and women, while encouraging greater understanding, unity and inclusion.
Representing UnsilencedMen
UnsilencedMen was represented by Dr Steven Molakeng, who contributed to the programme through a dedicated session focusing on:
“Brotherhood: Psychological Safety and Wellbeing of Men (40 Years and Above) in The Presidency.”
The session recognised that men's wellbeing extends beyond mental health alone. As men navigate different stages of life, they can face changing expectations and challenges relating to relationships, family responsibilities, physical and emotional wellbeing, and personal identity.
Dr Molakeng's session created an opportunity to address some of these issues through open and constructive conversation.
Discussing Intimate Relationships and Sexual Health
One of the important areas explored was sexual dysfunction and intimate relationships among older men.
These conversations can often be difficult to have openly, particularly when men feel pressure to maintain a particular image of strength or confidence.
The discussion encouraged men to recognise that changes in sexual health and intimacy are issues that can be addressed through communication, appropriate professional support, understanding and healthy relationships, rather than being carried in silence.
The session also explored how men can continue to navigate and thrive within intimate relationships while recognising the realities that can come with different stages of life.
Co-Parenting & Child Maintenance
Another important area of discussion focused on the realities of co-parenting and child maintenance.
For many men, fatherhood can involve complex relationships and responsibilities, particularly when parents are no longer together.
The conversation highlighted the importance of approaching these responsibilities with communication, accountability, respect and the wellbeing of the child at the centre.
Rather than viewing these issues only through conflict, the discussion encouraged participants to consider how healthier communication and responsible engagement can contribute to stronger family relationships and better outcomes for children.
The Importance of Brotherhood
At the heart of the session was the concept of brotherhood.
Creating psychologically safe spaces allows men to recognise that they do not have to navigate every challenge alone. Brotherhood can provide opportunities to:
Speak openly about challenges
Listen without judgement
Share experiences
Seek appropriate support
Learn from one another
Build healthier relationships
Encourage positive personal growth
For UnsilencedMen, these conversations are central to our mission of creating environments where men feel seen, heard and supported.
Continuing the Conversation
We extend our appreciation to the organisers of the Men & Women Dialogue 2026, the Programme Director Ms Lucia Mphahlele, and everyone who contributed to creating a platform for meaningful engagement.
We are grateful to have represented UnsilencedMen and to have contributed to a conversation that recognises the importance of men's wellbeing across different stages of life.
Our work continues to focus on creating spaces where difficult conversations can take place with honesty, dignity and understanding.
Because asking questions is not weakness. Seeking support is not weakness. Talking is not weakness.
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