Rhodes University is creating space for men to have the conversations that matter.
Following the success of its inaugural gathering in 2025, the University will host the second annual RU Men of Impact seminar on Saturday, 19 September 2026, from 09h00 to 13h00 at Eden Grove Red.
The event brings together male students and staff for an open and constructive conversation about masculinity, mental well-being, relationships, vulnerability and personal accountability.
At the heart of this year’s programme is a simple but powerful message: speaking up is not a weakness – it is an act of courage, leadership and responsibility.
Rather than prescribing what men “should” or “should not” be, RU Men of Impact creates a space where participants can listen to one another, reflect on their experiences, ask difficult questions and consider how they can contribute to healthier relationships and safer communities.
From silence to meaningful conversations
The seminar will feature a keynote address by Dr Thoko Sipungu, author and senior lecturer at Nelson Mandela University, whose work explores men, masculinities, sexuality and disability.
Her keynote, “What Silence Does: Masculinity, Vulnerability and Speaking Out”, will examine the consequences of emotional silence and the importance of creating spaces where men can speak openly about their experiences.
Acclaimed actor Andile Nebulane, known for his role in Igazi and founder of Ndoda Thetha, will deliver the guest address, “Men, Masculinity and the Courage to Speak”. Through his work, Nebulane encourages men to confront the silent struggles that are often left unspoken.
The programme will also feature an expert panel discussion and dialogue circles, allowing participants to move beyond listening and actively engage with issues surrounding masculinity, vulnerability, relationships and accountability.
Redefining strength
RU Men of Impact forms part of Rhodes University’s broader commitment to building an equitable, respectful and safer campus culture.
The initiative recognises that addressing gender-based violence requires more than institutional policies. It also requires men to examine harmful social norms, challenge emotional suppression, reject misogyny and become active allies in creating healthier student communities.
“Ending GBV requires more than institutional policy – it demands a fundamental cultural shift driven by men who step up as role models and allies,” said Mzikazi Noholoza, Manager: Residence Life, Student Support and Development.
“RU Men of Impact brings this shift into focus, showing that positive masculinity is an essential component of campus safety and wellbeing.”
Through its partnerships with Singamadoda Men Empowerment Spaces in Makhanda and Ndoda Thetha, Rhodes University is also extending the conversation beyond the campus community.
Taking the conversation to the airwaves
The conversation will reach a wider audience when Themba Masango, President of Not In My Name International (NIMNI), joins Rhodes Music Radio (RMR) live on air.
Masango will discuss systemic approaches to male mental health, accountability and the broader challenges facing men in South Africa.
Founded in 2017, NIMNI is a South African grassroots civil rights movement established in response to the country’s ongoing crisis of gender-based violence and femicide.
By bringing together academic voices, community activists, creatives and men with lived experience, RU Men of Impact aims to move the conversation from silence to action.
The seminar is open to all male students and staff at Rhodes University.
Support is available
Students experiencing emotional distress, or those concerned about their own wellbeing or that of someone else, are encouraged to seek support from the Counselling Centre in the Steve Biko Building or email counsellingcente@ru.ac.za.
RU Men of Impact 2026 is an invitation to speak, listen, reflect and lead – because healthier men, healthier relationships and safer communities begin with conversations we are willing to have.
