Adolf Kaure
One Economy Foundation hosted #BeFreeBallers: Next Gen Men last Friday, bringing together young men for conversations on constructive masculinity.
The event coincided with the International Day of the Boy Child, which is commemorated every 15 May.
One Economy’s director of operations, Saddam Biwa, emphasised the importance of creating spaces where young men feel safe enough to speak openly about the pressures and challenges they face, echoing the initiative’s theme “silence is expensive.”
“Being able to say ‘this is what I’m going through’ matters. Spaces like #BeFreeBallers exist so young men can engage honestly, support one another, and unpack genuine psychological and psychosocial challenges and collectively shape a healthier vision of masculinity,” said Biwa.
Breaking silence
SanlamAllianz Investments CEO, Tega Shiimi ya Shiimi, reflected candidly on his personal journey.
“I have made mistakes and learned from them. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. Growth comes when you finally reflect, take accountability and decide what kind of man you want to become,” said ya Shiimi.
His reflections encouraged attendees to understand that mistakes do not define their future and that accountability and intentional change through healing and therapy can still lead to success and purpose.
Harmful ideas
Psychologist Dr Schalk Botha encouraged attendees to move away from harmful ideas around vulnerability as he addressed the dangers of emotional suppression and shame.
“We need to stay away from weakness and shame. We all feel vulnerable in life. Thinking we must be strong or dominant can keep us from sharing and seeking help,” he said. The discussion challenged stereotypes that often discourage men from expressing emotion, seeking support or engaging honestly about their struggles,” said Botha.
Reflection
Advocate and mentor Rachimo Haradoeb reflected on how poor decision-making contributed to choices that ultimately led him to a 25-year prison sentence.
“Make peace with yourself and do not be afraid to seek support. If you do not find support at home, there are churches, organisations and people willing to help you. You do not have to carry everything alone,” Haradoeb said.
Beyond theatre
Beyond the stage, the conversations continued through engagement stations focused on mentoring youth men on communication, sexual and reproductive health, identity, purpose and personal growth.
A highlight was the Know Your Numbers station, where attendees received information and engaged in conversations around sexual and reproductive health, routine testing and informed health decisions.
In addition, member of the Children’s Parliament, Gerson Neumbo, said one of his biggest takeaways from Haradoeb’s testimony was the importance of not allowing pain, anger or disappointment to shape harmful decisions, while also recognising how difficult situations can test a person’s character and emotional resilience.
Neumbo added the discussion showed that even successful leaders have faced struggles, made mistakes and had to change and grow through those experiences.
He added that mentorship becomes more impactful when influential figures openly share their journeys, helping young men realise that struggles are shared and that honest conversations can happen without judgement.
Ongoing support
Furthermore, One Economy’s work with young men extends beyond one-day events through ongoing weekly programmes at the #BeFree Youth Campus, including #MajitaMondays, which happens every Monday and brings together young men aged 13 to 35 for conversations on constructive masculinity, emotional wellbeing, accountability and personal growth.