A vibrant crowd gathered at Albert Park in Suva yesterday morning for a family-friendly boot camp, part of the Movember campaign aimed at promoting men’s physical and mental health. Organised by the Fiji Cancer Society, Empower Pacific, and the Australian Defence Force, the event sought to raise awareness about the health struggles many men face but often go unaddressed.
Karolina Tamani, the clinical nurse manager at the Fiji Cancer Society, emphasized that the presence of participants was not merely a demonstration of physical strength, but a powerful testament to solidarity regarding men’s health and mental wellness. She remarked, “Movember is not just about growing moustaches; it’s about growing awareness, courage, and connection.”
During the event, speakers highlighted the mental health pressures faced by men in Fiji and the Pacific, which often lead to late cancer diagnoses and untreated psychological issues. Tamani noted that it is essential to break the silence surrounding these concerns, stating, “No more silence. No more stigma.” She advocated for embracing vulnerability, framing the act of seeking help as a strategic choice rather than a sign of weakness.
The impactful role of Empower Pacific was acknowledged for providing vital counselling support, while appreciation was also extended to the Australian Defence Force for its contributions. The overarching message for participants was clear: “Lace up, speak up, check in, and keep moving for your health, for your brothers, and for a future where no man walks alone.”
This year’s Movember campaign follows previous successful initiatives that focused on raising awareness regarding men’s health. Notably, the IHG Fiji Hotels, which also participated in Movember activities, raised $5,000 for Lifeline Fiji, underlining community engagement in combating issues like mental health and prostate cancer. Their efforts included organizing mental health awareness sessions, showcasing the importance of support systems for addressing such critical topics.
The continuation of these campaigns signals a growing commitment in Fiji to foster open dialogues about men’s health issues and to empower individuals to seek help. Such initiatives contribute not only to raising awareness but also to building supportive communities where men can feel safe discussing their struggles, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for all.