My name is Oluoch Oketch. I am a Learning & development expert and public health professional with bias in research and monitoring and evaluation. Additionally, I am a leadership trainer, Certified Professional Mediator, Child Online Protection ambassador, a facilitator, and a mentor for boys. I also hold a certificate in christian ministry from the Mavuno church,s Fearless Institute
My journey to manhood has been one of constant change and adaptation. Over time, I have realized that men carry wounds that hinder them to perform their “manly duties” effectively. This realization made me contemplate how to bridge the gap. I have been deeply troubled by the lack of leadership in our families and society. Men are slowly running away from their responsibilities in society. Boys lack mentors as they transition from boyhood to manhood. This gap contributes to the rise in abuse cases in the country.
This fueled my passion for supporting men and I resolved to seize every opportunity to ensure that men take up their roles. When men fail to take up these responsibilities society degenerates and as a result, leads to a lot of abuse cases in our country; fatherless families, children turn against their parents, their siblings, their teachers, their girlfriends, and their boyfriends. We have seen men burn, kill, and maim their wives and children, burning schools. Many men are currently committing suicide. As we know, if men were to stand up to their responsibilities and take firm leadership in society and their families, the world would be the best place to live.
Navigating manhood is a journey that never ends. There will always be new challenges to face and new lessons to learn. But by cultivating patience and vulnerability, we can navigate these challenges with grace and strength. As men, we need to reject the outdated notion of what it means to be a “real man.” Real men aren’t emotionless robots who never ask for help. Real men are those who are willing to be vulnerable, to ask for support, and to embrace change and growth. So if you’re a man who is struggling to navigate the challenges of manhood, remember this: you’re not alone. We all face struggles and challenges, but by being patient, vulnerable, and willing to ask for help, we can overcome them and emerge stronger and more resilient.
“Manhood” is not just for men seeking to improve themselves, but for anyone interested in understanding and supporting the boys and men in their lives. *Being a Real Man* is an invitation to men of all walks to become more aware truths about the subject of good stewardship. When men purpose to be they naturally unlock their stewardship abilities. This, then, becomes the making it a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the complex and rewarding journey of becoming a better man.
