Men’s Gathering: Celebrating Spirits, Strength & Resilience
On April 11th, KL hosted a Men’s Gathering at the Coast Bastion, to celebrate their spirits, strength, and resilience. It served as a safe space where participants could openly express vulnerability, exchange knowledge, and share experiences on a range of topics, including relationships, mental health, and parenting.
The event also featured various self-care options such as pedicures, manicures, yoga, cultural brushings and more. These activities provided a unique opportunity for attendees to step out of their comfort zones in a supportive environment. "I think we all learned a lot from each other and grew together in the process," remarked one participant. "It was comforting to see familiar faces from my community and to connect with new ones," they added, highlighting the sense of camaraderie fostered throughout the day.
KL provided health support to assist the men during discussions of heavy or triggering topics. "I was able to seek support from KL Wellness Counsellor, Stan Matthew, which helped me recenter myself and feel supported," shared one attendee. Another participant expressed their initial hesitance, admitting, "At first, I was a bit timid, but eventually, I felt comfortable enough to let my guard down and engage fully." This sentiment echoed the inclusive atmosphere created by the event, encouraging individuals to embrace self-care practices and forge meaningful connections with others.
Overall, the Men’s Gathering proved to be a transformative experience for many, offering a space where men could prioritize their well-being and personal growth in a supportive and accepting environment.