To the team at Voice of Men 360 and everyone involved in International Men’s Day, thank you for this honour. Thank you for empowering men and boys to live healthier, more fulfilled lives and for reminding us all that resilience, kindness, and positive regard are transformative forces.
In the journey of supporting boys and men in our society, organizations like Voice of Men 360 are beacons of hope and positive change. Founded in 2020 by Sivam Velautham, and based in Toronto, Canada, Voice of Men 360 emerged to provide support to help boys and men overcome life’s challenges. By understanding the unique pressures faced by men, this organization fosters an environment of growth, healing, and empowerment.
A Shared Mission of Positive Impact
Voice of Men 360 is part of a broader global initiative through International Men's Day (IMD), founded by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh. Celebrated in nearly 90 countries, IMD highlights the importance of men’s well-being while celebrating their contributions to family, community, and society at large.
For all you fathers, teachers, colleagues, and mentors, who are the quiet heroes who shape the world with your empowerment, dedication, and example, thank you.
Why Voice of Men 360 and IMD Matter
Men across all cultures face unique challenges shaped by societal expectations, cultural norms, and gender roles. These pressures often prioritize traits like stoicism, self-reliance, and financial success, which can discourage emotional expression and seeking support for mental health struggles. Men experience higher rates of workplace fatalities, incarceration, and homelessness, and are disproportionately affected by addiction and substance abuse. Additionally, the global male suicide rate is significantly higher than that of women, with men accounting for approximately 75% of suicides worldwide. These challenges are compounded by stigmas surrounding vulnerability, limiting access to resources, and encouraging isolation. Addressing these issues requires fostering inclusive dialogue, rethinking cultural norms, and providing accessible support systems that encourage emotional well-being and resilience.
As someone deeply passionate about mental health, emotional resilience, and community service, this recognition resonates on a personal level. Over the years, I have seen firsthand the power of connection, voice, and collective support in transforming lives in deeply stigmatized areas of our culture. I am grateful for this recognition. Empowerment of boys and men, and breaking stigmas that help build healthy societies is the true reward of this work, however. Whether it’s leading workshops like Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) to promote safety and focus on life, my various roles at The Gatehouse, or engaging in community efforts to uplift those facing adversity, my mission has always been to walk alongside others as they find their strength and voice. Being the father of two boys, this issue is close to my heart.
A Heartfelt Thank You
I want to thank Arthur Lockhart for nominating me for this recognition. This year has carried a deep sense of nostalgia and accomplishment for me. I am 8 years post my Total Laryngectomy (where a surgeon cautioned that I would never speak publicly again), I've been teaching kung fu for over 25 years, facilitated 51 ASIST workshops earning me the distinction of LivingWorks Silver Standard (all post my laryngectomy), I have spoken to hundreds of post-secondary students about finding joy and happiness amid adversity and trauma, volunteer for Special Olympics Ontario with the Glen Eden Snow Blazers Alpine Team, and facilitate mindfulness workshops based on my co-authored book Dynamic Balance. I am also happily married with two amazing teenage boys who inspire me every day. Suffice to say, I feel deeply grateful.
As a recipient of an award from Voice of Men 360 on International Men’s Day 2024, I want to take a moment to acknowledge Sivam Velautham and Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh. It is humbling to be recognized by those who work tirelessly to uplift men and boys, embracing the values of compassion, integrity, and community.
I am truly honoured to stand with you in this journey. Together, we continue to build communities where men and boys thrive, inspire, and serve.
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