The Gender Affairs Unit of the Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection (DHWSP) shone the spotlight on men and their well-being at “The Inner Man” workshop, held on Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 at the Shaw Park Complex.
In addressing the audience, DHWSP Secretary Dr. Faith Brebnor gave her commitment that the Division will continue to provide programmes that are focused on ensuring that all men are safe, heard and nourished.
The Secretary described who was the ‘Inner Man.’ “For far too long you have been told to suck it up; for far too long you have been told to behave like a man when you are showing your vulnerabilities; for far too long people like me have heard you cry and instead of hugging you, listening to you, allowing you to rest your head on our shoulders, because that is all you needed, we watched you and said, ‘Yuh a man, go out and do it.’”
Dr. Brebnor said this is what “The Inner Man” workshop is trying to change. “This is our way of saying that we recognise you as human beings who have emotions, who have feelings, who want to cry, in the same way as a female may want to cry, and it’s quite ok.”
Mrs. Shellie-Ann John, Head of the Department of Social Protection, delivered the opening remarks and explained that the programme created a unique space for men to explore issues that speak specifically to their journey. She said, “Today, we see you, we hear you, and we acknowledge that the inner man requires nourishment, guidance and care just as much as the outer man.” She encouraged those present to engage fully in the day’s programme and ask the tough questions.
Sharing similar sentiments, DHWSP Gender Officer Mr. Nigel Phillip expressed the importance of such a programme in the Tobago space. He detailed that ‘The Inner Man’ looked deeply into how men confronted and coped with trauma in their lives, as men experienced trauma just as deeply as anyone else. “The way it shows up and the way society responds to it can be very different” Phillip said.
Following the Opening Ceremony, the main presenter Dr. Oscar Ocho, a leading voice on masculinity, men’s health and health systems leadership, took centre stage.
Sixty-three men of varying ages attended the interactive session which included topics on ‘Men and their vulnerabilities’, ‘Gender-based Violence’, and ‘Men and their emotions.’
For further information on the Gender Unit and their services, contact 639-3395 ext. 47045-46.
