Men are generally expected to be strong and resilient, regardless of their challenges. Yet behind that image are struggles with mental health, unemployment, family responsibilities and social pressures. These are the remarks of Luyolo Lengesi-Hawule, the co-founder and managing director of #Langa For Men.
#LangaForMen is a non-profit organisation (NPO) focused on reprogramming the minds of men and encouraging young boys to become protectors of women and children rather than the perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Promoting positive masculinity and accountability
Lengesi-Hawule (28) described the organisation as a movement that creates safe community spaces for male accountability, healing and progressive dialogue. He said the organisation is dedicated to empowering men and promoting positive masculinity.
“Through regular meetings, workshops and community activities, the organisation provides a safe space where men can discuss issues affecting their lives without fear of judgement. The programme brings together men from different age groups and backgrounds to share experiences, learn from one another and find solutions to common challenges.
“Topics discussed range from mental health, fatherhood and relationships to substance abuse, GBV and economic empowerment,” he said.
According to Lengesi-Hawule, one of the programme’s primary objectives is to encourage men to become active participants in building healthier families and safer communities by promoting accountability, respect and emotional well-being.
Challenging stereotypes around men’s mental health
He said they want to change the mindset and stereotypes that often prevent men from seeking help when they need it.
“The aim is to help men develop better communication skills, improve relationships with their families and gain a greater understanding of their role within the community. Our programmes are more than support groups; they have become a brotherhood built on trust, encouragement and a shared purpose,” he said.
To promote broader inclusivity in the community, the organisation recently established Langa For Women and Langa For Queer.
“As #LangaForMen, we noticed that there are cases that require a more specialised approach. We therefore established Langa For Women to focus on issues affecting women. The same applies to Langa For Queer, which represents and supports members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI+) community,” he explained, adding that both groups were established in 2021.
Lengesi-Hawule said that beyond group sessions, members also participate in community outreach projects, awareness campaigns and activities aimed at promoting unity and social cohesion.
“These efforts demonstrate the group’s commitment to making a tangible difference both in their own lives and in the broader community,” he said.
Siyakhathala Community Kitchen feeding vulnerable residents
He added that the organisation also runs the Siyakhathala Community Kitchen, which provides meals to vulnerable residents from Tuesday to Friday.
“We cook for no fewer than 400 people every day. We also visit schools in Langa and have built strong relationships with both primary and high schools in the area. During these visits, we engage with learners through educational and motivational sessions,” said Lengesi-Hawule.
Ward 51 councillor Lwazi Phakade described the organisation as a valuable asset to the community.
Building role models and agents of change in Langa
“It plays a pivotal role in empowering men, particularly young men and boys. Social problems such as crime, substance abuse and domestic violence cannot be addressed without involving men in meaningful conversations and interventions. We believe programmes like #Langa For Men contribute to positive social change by encouraging men to become role models and agents of transformation,” said Phakade.
