This year’s Men’s Week is now underway, with a full programme of activities aimed at encouraging men and boys to live with integrity and clarity of direction.
The Ministry of Social Development and Education, through the Gender Affairs Unit, launched the week on Father’s Day, 15 June, under the theme ‘Men living the legacy: Evolving with purpose’.
It officially began with a father-son retreat at Red Dragon Disco, and a relay challenge and money toss at the Raymond E Guishard Technical Centre.
Throughout the week there will be a series of ‘mentours’ outreach events at Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, hotels and His Majesty’s Prison.
Activities will finish on Saturday, 21 June with the Revolution National Men’s Conference with panel discussions, a domino competition and a health corner, also at Red Dragon Disco.
The winners of this year’s Man of Action Awards have also been announced and will be celebrated this week.
An independent selection panel reviewed the entries and selected the recipients from 29 nominations across seven categories.
They are:
- Girdon Connor – Sport, Arts and Culture
- Incia ‘Busta’ Brooks – Community Impact
- Keivois Lake – Emerging Leader
- Jevohn Martin – Excellence in Mentorship
- Delano Smith – Phoenix Award
- Valentino Muckett – Health and Wellness Advocate
- Victor F Banks – Lifetime Achievement
Living the legacy
In an online address, social development minister Shellya Rogers-Webster said legacy is not confined to what is left behind at the end of a person’s life.
“But is actively built in the present through daily choices, consistent actions and the values we upgrade,” she said.
“Living the legacy calls upon all men to honour the sacrifices, struggles and contributions of those who came before them by committing to a legacy of integrity, service and purpose.”
The week offers opportunities for men and boys to connect, reflect and engage in meaningful dialogue about identity, responsibility and their role in building stronger families and communities, she said.
“To all men and boys across Anguilla, I encourage you to live intentionally, lead with values, and strive each day to leave a positive and enduring impact,” the minister continued.
“Your legacy is not only your inheritance. It is your responsibility.”
More information on the week is available from the Gender Affairs Unit on (264) 497-3930 ext. 3505 or via email at genderaffairsanguilla@gmail.com
Listen to Shellya Rogers-Webster’s address in full below:
