The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) marked International Men’s Day with a transformative conference on Wednesday, gathering nearly 100 men from diverse workplaces at the Union’s Freedom Hall Headquarters. Centered on the theme “Healthy Men, Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Communities,” the event aimed to enhance men’s holistic well-being, addressing physical, mental, and emotional health. ABWU General Secretary Sen. David Massiah opened the conference with a powerful call to action, urging men to play an active role in fortifying families and societal institutions. He emphasized the Union’s unwavering support for its male members, stating, “The union that represents you, that negotiates for you, is here to stand with you,” and highlighting the pivotal role of empowered men in fostering stronger communities. The first session, led by Clinical Psychologist Feona Charles Richards, focused on mental wellness as a cornerstone for stable families and thriving societies. Richards encouraged men to prioritize self-awareness and self-care, asserting, “In order for you to really love anyone else, you have to love yourself.” Urologist Dr. Dwayne Thwaites followed with an interactive discussion on prevalent health risks among men of African descent, including hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and prostate cancer. He underscored the importance of early detection and understanding family medical history, noting, “These diseases are treatable once we pick them up early.” The final session, facilitated by esthetician Octavia Nicholas, explored the role of personal grooming and self-care in boosting confidence and overall well-being. Nicholas challenged societal stigmas around personal care treatments, encouraging men to embrace self-care practices. The conference was widely praised by attendees, with one participant likening the atmosphere to “a day on the block,” highlighting the camaraderie and shared learning. Another expressed gratitude, stating, “I really want to thank the Union for putting on this conference just for us, because sometimes men are overlooked.” In closing, the ABWU reaffirmed its commitment to developing programs that empower men to contribute meaningfully to society at all levels.
Men Unite for Health and Personal Growth at ABWU International Men’s Day Event
