Reimagining Collective Brotherhood: Muholi Art Institute’s Annual Men’s Conference to Ignite Transformative Dialogue in Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa – August, 2025 – As South Africa grapples with rising gender-based violence, mental health crises among men, and toxic workplace cultures, the Muholi Art Institute’s Annual Men’s Conference arrives as a timely call to action.
Set for August 29-30, 2025, FREE Entry at the iconic Southern Guild Gallery, Silo 5, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, this transformative two-day event (10:00–16:00 daily) unites men and allies from South Africa to Panama to redefine masculinity and forge a collective brotherhood.
Under the bold theme “Reimagining Collective Brotherhood,” the conference will confront sensitive issues with courage, fostering respect and accountability across genders and identities in the African context. Hosted at the Southern Guild Gallery, renowned for celebrating bold African creativity, this immersive gathering will spark urgent conversations to address stereotypes, workplace harassment, and the mental health challenges plaguing the creative industries. Open to men and allies, this event is a must-attend for anyone committed to transformation, inclusivity, and cultural impact.
Key discussion points include:
• Creating Inclusive Creative Spaces: How heterosexual men can ensure women and queer individuals feel safe and valued in professional settings.
• Challenging Stereotypes and Entitlement: Debunking myths, such as treating queerness as a “disease,” and addressing entitlement in workplace dynamics, particularly the influential role of men in creative spaces.
• Embracing Vulnerability: Encouraging men to see emotional expression and mental health support as strengths, not weaknesses, in navigating Africa’s cultural landscape.
“This conference is a rallying cry for men to lead with respect and accountability, creating creative spaces where everyone thrives,” says Njabulo Hlongwane, a celebrated South African filmmaker and community leader. “We’re here to confront toxicity and build a legacy of positive change.”
Lillo Berg, a prominent South African social worker and LGBTQI+ advocate, emphasizes cultural sensitivity: “In Africa, we must approach identity with care and courage. This conference is a safe space to unlearn harmful stereotypes and build a brotherhood that uplifts all.”
Moises Kierszenblat, a Panamanian media professional, highlights global collaboration: “The creative industry’s power lies in unity, not division. This event challenges us to reject entitlement and create a shared, inclusive future.”
Cesar Othon, a Panamanian actor and industry scholar, adds, “Vulnerability is the foundation of a stronger brotherhood. By speaking honestly about harassment and mental health, we can transform creative industries for the better.”
Key Sessions:
• Voices of Young Queer Men (Aug 29 & 30, 11:00–12:30): A panel featuring young queer men, including social workers and LGBTQI+ youth advocates like Lillo Berg, sharing experiences of identity and acceptance in male-dominated spaces.
• Men in Media: Industry Realities (Aug 29, 13:30–15:00): Filmmakers like Njabulo Hlongwane and Panamanian actor Cesar Othon unpack workplace pressures, toxic masculinity, and mental health challenges.
• The Strength in Vulnerability (Aug 30, 13:30–15:00): A storytelling session led by psychologists and community leaders, encouraging men to embrace emotional honesty.
The conference aims to launch a Creative Brotherhood Network, connecting men and allies to sustain mentorship, advocacy, and inclusive practices in the creative industries beyond 2025. This initiative will amplify the event’s impact, fostering ongoing dialogue and actionable change.
Join us at the Southern Guild Gallery for a conference that will redefine what it means to be a man in today’s world. Be part of the conversation shaping a more inclusive, impactful future.
RSVP and Media Inquiries
To attend email: Info@muholiartinstitute.org.
Released by: Kwathole Conexion on behalf of Muholi Art Institute (MAI)
Media Contact: Thanduxolo Jindela – +27 73 844 7848 | kwathole@gmail.com | media@kwathole.co.za
About the Muholi Art Institute (MAI)
Founded by globally acclaimed photographer Zanele Muholi, MAI is dedicated to empowering men through mentorship, training, and advocacy. MAI creates transformative spaces for creative expression, cultural resistance, and legacy-building, with the Men Conference as a cornerstone of its mission to uplift and foster ongoing dialogue for men.
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