Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
The founder of International Men’s Day (IMD) and World Day of the Boy Child in T&T, Dr Jerome Teelucksingh, has urged men to value themselves as he expressed concern about the rising statistics of crime and self-harm among men in the country. He’s also troubled by the glorification of gang culture in T&T.
In an interview with Guardian Media ahead of International Men’s Day today, Teelucksingh said these issues perpetuate a cycle of violence, trapping young men in destructive patterns that harm both themselves and society.
“The gang culture has been glorified. We now have to provide more appealing alternatives to those being offered in subcultures. Many boys no longer see the value of education or a good work ethic. The ‘zesser’ image has led teenagers and young adults to seek quick wealth, disregarding the importance of meaningful relationships and valuing their lives.”
He pointed to the high rate of self-harm as a symptom of a society that has become “cold, uncaring, and fast-paced.”
“We need to teach our boys and men proper coping mechanisms, such as being less competitive and avoiding stressful situations and people. Let us also teach them to be less materialistic and to appreciate life,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Teelucksingh believes T&T has a wealth of positive male role models.
“I believe we have sufficient positive male role models in T&T for young citizens, but these role models are often ‘invisible’. There are men involved in NGOs, donating blood, volunteering, feeding the poor, and supporting charitable causes. However, these noble men are neither highlighted on social media nor receive awards,” he said.
He called for society to change its narrative and recognise the contributions of such men.
“We need to ensure these positive stories are told so they can inspire others to follow,” he explained. Teelucksingh also highlighted the damaging impact of societal labels on men, particularly the use of terms like “toxic masculinity.”
“These labels are often wrongly used and prevent men from expressing their emotions,” he said. “Men face unfair branding by society, and this further isolates them.” He added that mentorship programmes can play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges, but they must be sustained.
“Mentors must realise it is a lifelong experience. Don’t be a temporary mentor; continue to inspire and guide those you train,” he urged.
Reflecting on the global impact of IMD, now in its 25th year, Teelucksingh said he had mixed feelings of accomplishment and frustration.
“Yes, the IMD brand is global, but there are still major hurdles. Across the world, I am troubled to see the statistics involving men and ailments such as depression and heart attacks, as well as crime, suicides, unemployment, and refugee crises,” he said.
He said his message for International Men’s Day was one of unity and hope.
“I want men to value themselves. Every man must care for his mental and physical health. I want men to put aside their differences—religious, ideological, political, ethnic, and class—and unite to prevent bloodshed, hate, and save our planet.”
