Eleven certified male advocates from the East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA) have once again undergone mentoring under the second session of the ‘Wok Wantaim Man’ program in Kokopo.

This initiative is a core component of ongoing capacity building designed to empower men as full-time advocates against Gender Based Violence (GBV).

Supported by the PNG-Australia Partnership through the PNG-Australia Transition to Health Program (PATH), the session focused on the pivotal role of male advocates in shifting the narrative from power and control toward equality.

National Consultant and facilitator Emmanuel Ginis, who listened closely to the participants' personal stories, noted that the level of openness regarding the challenges of navigating masculine dominance was overwhelming.

He shared his perspective on these societal pressures, stating that a man becomes dominant, aggressive and unemotional, leading to violence which is mostly defined by cultural norms and toxic masculinity.

“However, men can leverage their power to mentor women, become vocal on discouraging men on harmful actions, support women and children’s rights and simply become role models in sharing tasks and responsibilities.”

The ‘Wok Wantaim Man’ program has further strengthened the advocates’ ability to fully grasp the dynamics of power and control when applied in the appropriate context.

Mr. Ginis emphasized the importance of transitioning toward a more collaborative leadership style.

“One is to have power over certain decisions or over others, by sharing power rather than being dominant.”

“It is than reflected as choices and becomes applicable towards the actions carried out.”

In the coming weeks, the remaining three sessions will focus on identifying and discussing practical measures to address these challenges and issues within both the workplace and the household.