On 8th September in Bangem, we witnessed the power of adolescent boys choosing a different path.
Through sports and art, they explored the heavy “masks” society often expects them to wear – masks of power, domination, the role of breadwinner, and the notion of being “never afraid.” Yet when given the chance, these boys drew portraits of the men they truly aspire to become: respectful, caring, emotionally open, and supportive.
This session formed part of our flagship initiative, “Catch Them Young”, and the project “Champions for Change: Engaging Adolescent Boys to Prevent VAWG, Shift Negative Masculinity, and Promote Gender Equality.” It revealed the eagerness of boys to embrace change and to redefine what it means to be a man.
Together with our partners at Shalom Football and Sports Academy, we are working to challenge harmful social norms before they take root; empowering adolescent boys to choose respect and empathy over domination and silence.
As one of our facilitators reminded the group at the close of the activity:
“True strength is not in violence or domination, but in respect, care, and standing up for what is right.”
At Visionary Care Foundation (VCF) Cameroon, we believe that by engaging boys early, we can help nurture a generation that values empathy over silence and equality over domination. These boys are proof that positive change is possible – when we listen, engage, and give them the tools to dream differently.
