MIDDELBURG – Nkangala TVET College encouraged men to speak openly about their mental health and take control of their finances during its Men’s Dialogue 2026, held at Pienaardam Resort in Middelburg on 7 August.
Held under the theme, Breaking the Silence: Building Mentally Strong and Financially Empowered Men, the dialogue brought together employees and stakeholders to discuss mental health, financial literacy, leadership and personal development.
Nkangala TVET College Council Deputy Chairperson Tebogo Matabane said the dialogue was organised to address issues many men experience but rarely discuss.
“Men are going through a lot, and if these issues are not talked about and ventilated, they begin to affect our families and, in turn, our work environment.”
He said the discussions focused on mental health, financial management and understanding the root causes of challenges facing men.
“We also spoke about dealing with pain because when pain remains unresolved, especially among men who are often expected to remain silent, it creates unnecessary tension and conflict in our homes and workplaces. Today’s dialogue gave us an opportunity to reflect on these issues and consider how we can approach them differently going forward.”
Deputy Director at the Department of Health William Mtambo said mental health should receive the same attention as physical health.
“Mental health is a critical component of a man’s overall health and well-being, yet in many instances we place greater emphasis on physical health while neglecting mental wellness.”
Mtambo challenged cultural beliefs that discourage men from expressing emotion, saying men should be encouraged to seek support when dealing with workplace stress, emotional struggles and personal challenges.
“Men should never feel compelled to suffer in silence. They must be encouraged to speak openly, seek support and know that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
The dialogue also explored alcohol abuse, unresolved emotional trauma, gender-based violence and responsible fatherhood. Men were encouraged to become positive role models, treat women with dignity and respect and remain actively involved in their children’s lives.
Financial literacy was another key focus, with Old Mutual financial adviser Lyson Baloyi urging delegates to take responsibility for their finances.
“If you fail to manage your money, your money will manage you.”
Baloyi encouraged participants to live within their means, prioritise their families’ needs and make informed financial decisions. He also highlighted the link between financial well-being and mental health and encouraged couples to have honest conversations about household finances.
Using wildlife as an analogy, he shared five secrets of money management, encouraging men to be fearless like a lion, attentive like an elephant, determined like a rhino, focused like a leopard and committed to protecting their families’ financial future.
The event concluded with participants encouraged to prioritise their mental well-being, strengthen their financial management and contribute to healthier families, workplaces and communities.
