KINGSTON, Jamaica — An initiative aimed at reshaping conversations surrounding men’s mental health, emotional well-being, and leadership in Jamaica will take centre stage on June 13 with the staging of the Redefining Men’s Wellness Conference & Award Ceremony.

Set for the Hope Fellowship Auditorium in Kingston from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the event is being spearheaded by author and life coach Shareka Swaby, who says the conference was born from years of observing the emotional struggles many men silently carry.

“The Redefining Men’s Wellness Conference was birthed out of a need I observed through my experience as a life coach who works with men. I found that I heard the same thing from almost every man: ‘Men aren’t allowed to have emotions or express their feelings,” Swaby said.

She noted that ongoing discussions surrounding men’s welfare in Jamaica, coupled with media reports highlighting the challenges men face emotionally and socially, reinforced the need for a dedicated safe space.

“When I listened to conversations about men’s wellbeing, along with the consistent articles in the media expressing the state of men’s welfare in our country, it highlighted the urgent need for a space for men not just to be educated, but also to safely express themselves,” she said.

The conference will tackle issues surrounding emotional fitness, mental wellness, leadership and fatherhood, while encouraging men to seek support systems without shame or stigma.

According to Swaby, one of the primary goals is to bridge the gap between emotional suppression and emotional healing.

“The conference is aimed at bridging the gap between ‘it’s not safe to express myself’ and ‘I feel safe booking an appointment with my therapist or wellness coach,’” she shared. “It also aims at educating men so they can see how a lack of emotional stability destroys not only their lives, but also the lives of their families and children.”

Originally conceptualised as solely a conference, the event evolved into a collaboration with Thriecia Tyndale, who had previously hosted a Father’s Day dinner and award ceremony.

“We both thought it was perfect alignment,” Swaby said.

In addition to the conference sessions, attendees will also be recognised during the award ceremony segment. Swaby explained that every man present will receive a certificate of appreciation simply for showing up and participating.

“The fact that they show up speaks volumes,” she said. “That is indeed one of the biggest steps in wanting to improve their overall wellness.”

Special tokens of appreciation will also be presented to fathers, uncles, nephews and brothers in recognition of their roles within families and communities. Additionally, several men who have made significant contributions across various industries — particularly in service — will be honoured for their impact.

The conference will feature keynote speakers selected specifically for their expertise in men’s wellness and leadership development. Topics to be explored include Breaking the ‘Man Up’ Myth, Emotional Fitness for Men, and Fatherhood.

Recognising the cultural sensitivities surrounding men’s mental health in the Caribbean, Swaby says intentional efforts are being made to create a safe and judgement-free environment.

“This is a strictly male-centred environment,” she explained. “As much as possible, the presenters and attendees will be male. The females in the room will serve as ushers and facilitators. I believe educating men first before we start having conversations will help create that sense of safety.”

She added that any form of ridicule or mockery will not be tolerated.

Beyond the day’s activities, Swaby hopes the conference sparks a cultural shift in how Jamaican society approaches men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.

“We are losing as a society because we are losing our men. We lose men, we lose families,” she stated. “If as a man you have ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, tired, angry or just downright fed up, then this is the space you want to be in on June 13, 2026.”

The organisers also hope the initiative evolves into both an annual event and a wider regional movement focused on men’s wellness across Jamaica and the Caribbean.

“Yes. Both. It is intended to become an annual event and it is the first step into a larger movement for men’s wellness,” she continued.

While sponsorship outreach is still ongoing, HEART Trust has already confirmed its attendance, and the Ministry of Health has provided informational materials in support of the initiative. Organisers say they remain open to additional partnerships and sponsorship opportunities in both cash and kind.

Ultimately, Swaby explained that the mission extends far beyond a single day.

“Jamaicans are very good at one-day wonders, but what we hope to see is a continuation of conversations. We intend to keep that lamp burning with the other things that will be coming as well, and we welcome other stakeholders and participants to join us on this journey,” she continued.

Shareka Swaby