Inspiring Young Leaders: Men for Equality Equips Students to Challenge Harmful Practices Across URR & LRR

Men for Equality has successfully completed a transformative training program across Upper River Region (URR) and Lower River Region (LRR), engaging junior and senior secondary school students in an empowering journey toward challenging harmful practices and promoting gender equality. The initiative brought together enthusiastic young learners who are now better equipped to influence positive change within their schools, families, and communities.

The training, supported by the Canada Funds for Local Initiative (CFLI), provided a safe and interactive learning space where students could openly discuss gender issues, rethink outdated norms, and strengthen their leadership potential.

A New Kind of Classroom: Learning to Transform Mindsets

Throughout the sessions, students explored critical topics such as gender norms, positive masculinity, leadership, peer influence, and the urgent need to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). These conversations were not just theoretical, they were deeply reflective, allowing students to connect lessons to real experiences in their daily lives.

At the core of this process was Men for Equality’s Gender Transformative Approach (GTA), a participatory model that encourages learners to examine how social norms and power structures shape relationships and opportunities. Through group discussions, storytelling, role-plays, and guided reflection, students learned to:

• Question and unlearn harmful stereotypes that limit both boys and girls
• Promote fairness, respect, and empathy in their interactions
• Challenge gender discrimination within their schools and communities
• Advocate for the safety, wellbeing, and rights of all children

This method allowed participants not only to understand the root causes of inequality but also to envision and commit to building healthier social environments.

Redefining Strength: A New Narrative of Positive Masculinity

One of the most impactful components of the training focused on positive masculinity. Boys were encouraged to rethink traditional ideas of “strength” that often promote dominance or emotional suppression. Instead, they were inspired to embrace:

• Responsibility
• Non-violence
• Emotional intelligence
• Respect for girls’ rights
• Confidence rooted in empathy

Many students shared personal reflections, expressing how these lessons challenged them to become better role models at home and in their communities. For many, it was the first time they had been invited to discuss masculinity in a way that uplifts rather than restricts them.

School Clubs: Sustaining the Movement for Equality

To ensure long-term impact, the training encouraged the creation and strengthening of school clubs focused on gender equality, anti-violence advocacy, and peer education. These clubs will:

• Lead awareness campaigns
• Support fellow students through peer mentoring
• Organize debates, drama sessions, and outreach activities
• Work closely with teachers, parents, and community leaders

Men for Equality will continue providing mentorship, resources, and follow-up engagements to ensure these clubs grow into powerful youth-led movements advocating for safer, more equal learning environments.

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Why This Work Matters

Young people are at the forefront of shaping the future. By investing in them through education, mentorship, and empowerment, Men for Equality is nurturing a bold generation ready to challenge harmful norms, including FGM, and champion equity and justice for all.

These young leaders are not just learning; they are transforming the conversation. Their voices, energy, and commitment represent the greatest hope for ending harmful practices and building communities where every child, girl or boy, can thrive.