One Economy Foundation men’s health event attracts 800

An event designed to break stigmas around men’s health and well-being recently attracted 800 attendees.

The #BreakFree Pillar of the One Economy Foundation successfully hosted the second edition of the Game Changers Sport and Well-Being Male Engagement event on 17 August.

Of the 800 attendees, 155 participated in the 5km and 10km run/walk, called ‘Strength in Every Stride’.

The Namibia Correctional Facility, Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust), Debmarine, and One Economy were among the notable organisations that took part in the day’s corporate relay.

Monica Geingos, the executive chairperson of the One Economy Foundation, alongside Beatrice Masilingi, Sam Shivute, and Kenneth Kamwi, secured first place in the first heat.

Physical health was further promoted through the ‘Wellness Warrior Challenge’, facilitated by four Namibian gyms, Musasa Wellness Oasis, Fit City, Iron House, and Sold Out CrossFit.

These gyms offered sessions in step aerobics, dance workouts, bodybuilding, and crossfit, highlighting the connection between physical and mental health.

In addition to the physical challenges, the event encouraged important conversations among men.

Mentors Billy Mokjara, Paul Peters, CJ Dumeni, and Silas Shipandeni led discussions on mental health, substance abuse, and societal norms.

A key takeaway from these discussions was the need for men to redefine masculinity.

Dumeni said: “We realised that we really do have some common issues. The main one that came out is that we are struggling to identify what masculinity looks like.”

The event also provided a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products.

It highlighted the importance of eliminating the stigma around men’s mental health and actively combating gender-based violence.