The Rakgadi Foundation is excited to announce, ‘The Real Men’s Imbizo’, an annual men’s conference to commemorate the late tombstone mogul, Lebohang Khitsane. The imbizo will be held on Saturday, 20 November 2021 (Lebohang Khitsane’s birth month) at the Killarney Country Club, Houghton in Johannesburg. The conference will run from 09h00 – 15h00 with guest speakers handpicked to address menfolk.
The role of a Rakgadi in South African families is a critical one. A Rakgadi is there to guide family members every step of the way when it comes to following family customs and norms. She is an elder who leads by example for younger female family members. Culturally, men are not vocal when it comes to discussing certain issues or taboo topics that affect them in an open forum for fear of being embarrassed or stigmatised. Examples of such topics include men’s health.
“My late brother passed away from kidney failure and struggled with mental health. To honour him, I’ve started an Imbizo through my foundation to facilitate an environment where men can learn from each other and encourage dialogue around certain matters”, says Semali Moeti, Founder and Director of Rakgadi Foundation.
The men’s conference will follow strict COVID-19 regulations and attendees can look forward to stimulating topics addressed by established key speakers including:
● Rakgadi Semali Moeti to introduce the Rakgadi Foundation
● Dr Mhinga on men’s health and the benefits of regular check-ups
● A panel discussion on mental health and GBV lead by Professor Solly Rataemane
● Prince Ramabulana to share his story on being a cancer survivor
● Margot McCumisky, national manager at Diabetes SA to address diabetes in men and the dangers of untreated diabetes
● Dr Shingai Mutambirwa on safe sexual health practices
● Professor Michael C Herbst, Health Specialist at CANSA to touch on different cancers that can affect men
● Dr Brian Monaisa (World renowned Plastic Surgeon) on rejuvenation and grooming
● Azael Langa (South African fine artist and sculptor) to lead an Art Masterclass
. Cian McClelland of Druids Garden on Natural Healing with medicinal mushrooms, plants & cannabis
In a time where male domination persists in society, and many doctrines reinforce the tradition of patriarchy, men usually find themselves being misinformed or not taking the opportunity (if any) to ensure they are informed as far as their financial, physical, and mental state is concerned.
“To build an inclusive society for all, it’s important that both men and women are empowered so that each one does not have to go through life alone. Encouraging self-awareness and facilitating dialogue can create meaningful change amongst our men and reduce current doctrines and stigmas that limit changed behaviour and societal progress”, concludes Moeti.
