The first of two “Man Cave” conferences organised to empower the Territory’s men will commence on Saturday, June 13.

The Office of Gender Affairs and the Family Health Unit of the Ministry of Health and Social Development will host the conferences on Tortola and Virgin Gorda as part of activities to observe Men’s Month.

Coordinator for Family Health Unit, Mrs. Noelene Clarke said “The Cave is a place where men can come together and discuss issues that mainly affect men.  It is a place where they can unwind, learn and share with the hope of empowering each other to become better men.”

Mrs. Clarke said topics to be discussed include, knowing yourself as a man and your personality pattern, understanding how to love in a relationship, co-parenting, violence in relationships and men’s sexual health.

Mrs. Clarke added, “In this society there are a lot of great men who have values and behaviors that other men can model. We are depending on those men to step up, encourage and provide support to the ones that are falling behind. This forum will provide that opportunity.”

Man Cave Tortola will take place on Saturday, June 13 at the Training Division conference room located on the second floor of the Betteto Frett Building from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. while Man Cave Virgin Gorda will take place at the Catholic Community Centre on Monday, June 15 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Men attending Man Cave Virgin Gorda will be given an opportunity to do various health tests including blood pressure, weight and HIV. All men are invited to bring a friend and support the activities in celebration of Men’s Month activities.  

Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Men’s Month is celebrated throughout the Territory for the entire month of June as the Office of Gender Affairs continues to develop and implement policies and programmes to promote gender equality and equity.