Reimagining Masculinity, Wellbeing and Sustainable Leadership in Higher Education
On 26 June 2026, the EAPA Western Cape Chapter, in collaboration with Stellenbosch University, hosted a powerful and thought-provoking Men’s Mental Health Summit at the Tygerberg Campus under the theme “Reimagining Masculinity, Wellbeing and Sustainable Leadership in Higher Education.”
The summit brought together EAPA members, university leaders, wellbeing practitioners, service providers, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations about masculinity, vulnerability, mental health, and sustainable leadership in the workplace.
The programme was intentionally designed to move beyond traditional conference formats and create a space for reflection, connection, and authentic dialogue. The day opened with a wellness activation and a reflective exercise, “Check-in beyond the title,” inviting participants to connect as people before connecting through their professional roles.
Highlights included a keynote conversation on “Masculinity, Vulnerability and Mental Health in South African Higher Education,” storytelling circles exploring “The Conversations Men Rarely Have at Work,” and a practical workshop focused on strengthening relational capacities and working across difference.
Participants also engaged in guided wellness resets, networking opportunities, and a compelling panel discussion on “Emotional and Spiritual Wellbeing: Strong Men Also Seek Support.” The summit concluded with a collective reflection session asking an important question: “What must universities do differently to support men’s wellbeing?”
Throughout the day, a consistent message emerged: sustainable leadership is not built on silence, isolation, or the pressure to appear invulnerable. It is built on self-awareness, empathy, connection, and the courage to seek support when needed.
As the final reflection reminded participants, “Strong men also seek support.” The event reaffirmed EAPA Western Cape’s commitment to advancing mental health, wellbeing, and human-centred leadership across workplaces, higher education institutions, and communities throughout South Africa.
