International Men’s Day event at Kelvinhall

On Tuesday 19 November, the Glasgow Life Community Development team, in partnership with Glasgow Life Sport, hosted their first-ever International Men's Day event at Kelvinhall.

With the theme Combatting Toxic Masculinity, the event brought together attendees for an evening of thought-provoking discussion, community engagement, and networking.

The event featured sports activities and an information marketplace where local organisations and charities showcased their work, providing valuable resources and support for those seeking to engage with men's health, equality, and personal development.

The highlight of the day was the lively discussion session led by broadcaster and GMB regular Sean McDonald. A distinguished panel of speakers, including Orwell Prize-winning author and social commentator Darren McGarvey, feminist author and speaker Anne Hughes, and Zander Murray—broadcaster, campaigner, LGBTQIA+ ambassador, and the first Scottish professional footballer to come out as gay—delivered powerful insights. 

Discussions explored toxic masculinity in Glasgow, from its impact on mental health and relationships to its intersections with societal expectations, gender roles, and the journey towards inclusivity. The panellists engaged with an enthusiastic audience, encouraging an open dialogue in a supportive and safe environment. The session was also recorded for Sean McDonald's Blethered podcast, ensuring that the important conversations reached an even wider audience.

This event has set a strong foundation for future initiatives, proving to be a valuable platform for fostering community connections, challenging stereotypes, and promoting the services of local organisations. The Community Development team is already planning similar events next year to continue driving meaningful conversations and creating spaces for positive change.