02-08-2025
Merafong men break the silence at first-ever Khutsong Men's Conference
In a powerful and emotionally charged gathering on Mandela Day, men from across the Merafong region came together in Khutsong for the inaugural Men's Conference — an event that may mark the beginning of a cultural shift in how men confront and process their struggles.
The conference, held at the Lepharo Building on Sompane Road, was organised by Men's Hope, a newly formed grassroots movement committed to fostering healing, leadership, and accountability among men in local communities.
In a judgment-free environment, participants sat in a circle of open dialogue, tackling deep and often taboo issues that many men silently endure. Topics included mental health, behavioural change, leadership, spirituality, financial stress, and social pressures — all with a shared goal of creating real, sustainable change within families and communities.
One of the central themes raised during the event was the absence of safe spaces where men can be emotionally vulnerable without fear of ridicule or shame. This lack, organisers believe, is a key contributor to cycles of unaddressed trauma and unhealthy behaviour.
In response to the day's success and powerful conversations, attendees committed to formalising the initiative by forming a committee that will help structure the movement going forward. Their collective vision is to embed these conversations into daily life in Merafong and extend the model across all local townships.
According to the Men's Hope movement, more community dialogues are being planned in different areas of Merafong with the aim of building a network of emotionally intelligent, purpose-driven men.
The first Khutsong Men's Conference may have been a one-day event — but for many of those who attended, it was the beginning of a new chapter.
