The Myth of Manhood

On December 3rd, we launched The Myth of Manhood, and it was one of the most powerful gatherings we have ever hosted at Global Sojourns Giving Circle. Donors, friends, mentors and supporters from around the world came together to celebrate Nyika’s story and to reflect on what it really means to build a more compassionate world for girls and boys.

Nyika shared the deeply personal process behind writing the book, and we had the opportunity to break into small groups to explore the importance of addressing toxic masculinity in our communities. What became clear is that this book is timely and urgently needed. We are living in a moment where outdated ideas of manhood are no longer serving us, and the world is calling for a different way of showing up. If you would like to watch the recording you can find it here.

Written from the perspective of an African man raised with deeply ingrained cultural expectations, Nyika’s story is a courageous and vulnerable account of unlearning, healing and choosing a new path. His message reminds us that this work goes beyond gender. It is about becoming a good human being, and we all know the world needs more of those.

GSGC is bravely opening space for these important conversations about what healthy masculinity can look like and how men can show up in ways that create safety, dignity and opportunity for all young people. Everyone on the call was deeply moved by Nyika’s honesty and the hope he carries for the next generation. We strongly believe that the ripple effects of this book will reach far beyond our circles and will positively influence anyone who encounters this story.

If this resonates with you, we invite you to read the book and join us in sharing it widely. Here is a short paragraph Nyika read during the launch from Chapter 3 of the book, that left many of us wanting to read more. If it moves you, we hope you will be part of spreading this important memoir far and wide.

I was 12 when I got the invitation from my brother. I remember the moment with a clarity that cuts through years. The wooden gate trembled on its hinges as my brother pressed it forward. His two dogs darted through first – their tails stiff, their yellow eyes glimmering – then he came, taller and more assured than I’d ever noticed.

“Nyika!” His voice fell on me like a hammer upon an anvil. The rush in his stride seemed to carry a message, something decisive, something that made my stomach knot. I remained in the shade of the acacia, unsure whether I was in trouble or not.He raised his chin, a mischievous glimmer creeping into his normally hard stare. “This girlish mind is going to end. It’s time you became a man.”

The Myth of Manhood is available as an e-book and is a powerful reflection on culture, courage and the role mentorship plays in reshaping ideas of what it means to be a man in Zimbabwe and beyond.

👉 Get your copy on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8MjXvrV

We would love to hear your reflections once you have read it.