In recent years, there has been a growing movement of men supporting and encouraging other men to be their best selves. This type of support and encouragement is often referred to as “guys supporting guys” or “men lifting men.” One of the main goals of this movement is to break down traditional stereotypes of masculinity that can be harmful and limiting. These stereotypes often include the idea that men should be tough, unemotional, and unwilling to show vulnerability. By encouraging men to be open and honest about their feelings and experiences, this movement aims to create a more understanding and compassionate society.
In Sydney, exercise physiologist Trent Nguyen has founded an informal support group called the Sydney Men’s Group. The idea started on another Facebook group which is intended to help people in Sydney meet one another; however, due to lack of proper moderation, the group quickly degraded into a den of fake profiles and sexual solicitation. From that group, Trent gathered a few guys who did not know each other in October 2021 for a fun gathering at Bankstown Sports Club. During that gathering, which had a tremendously positive impact on the dozen or so attendees, it was suggested that an informal gathering would be held monthly in addition to small gatherings whenever a few guys from the group decided to meet.
One way that guys can support other guys is by being a good listener and offering advice and support when needed. Men often feel pressure to appear strong and in control, and may be hesitant to share their struggles with others. By providing a safe and non-judgmental space for men to talk about their problems, friends and family can play a crucial role in helping men to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. This is why the Sydney Men’s Group preferred to remain an informal gathering of sorts in order to avoid pressure on any single person or group, and also to avoid expectations. On some meetings, only a handful of guys showed up, while on others, more than thirty rocked up.
In addition to the monthly gatherings, the Sydney Men’s Group is very active on Facebook. Discussions on it and in the chat range from trivial jokes and memes to lifechanging discussions. Most importantly, the group admins always keep an eye on discussions in order to make sure that any abuse or prejudice is addressed head on and even treated, if possible, or rooted out.
Overall, the Sydney Men’s Group is about creating a culture where men feel comfortable being their authentic selves and where they feel supported in their pursuit of happiness and fulfillment. By breaking down harmful stereotypes, promoting healthy habits and behaviors, and challenging harmful behavior, men can help to create a more understanding, compassionate and inclusive society for all. If you are interested in taking part of the next meeting (no strings attached), head over to the Facebook group which now boasts close to three hundred members and introduce yourself.
