A group of friends and brotherhood buddies from Tshing, near Ventersdorp in the North West, are gearing up for the weekend as they will be hosting a men's conference on Saturday at Docvila.

The day's programme will begin with a 5km fun walk, aerobics session, and other entertainment. From 16:00, proceedings will begin for the gala dinner, with five guest speakers to address the attendees.

The men want to support each other. Photo supplied

Speaking to OFM News, one of the organisers, Kagiso Mafu, said they will speak about challenges faced by men daily across all spheres. The aim is to educate and support one another.

Mafu said the event is not funded and everyone involved contributed to making it successful, citing that some people will come from Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom.

The men will speak about challenges faced daily across all spheres. Photo supplied

February is the month of love, and often male social media users joke about attending a men's conference on the 14th to avoid buying Valentine's Day gifts for their loved ones.

“Our initiative is not against the month of love, instead we want to be realistic and practical in having a conference where men can gather and have a productive engagement that will make a difference in our communities,” said Mafu.

Kgomotso Mabina told OFM News that some of the issues to be discussed include finance, parenting, gender-based violence, and mental and physical health.

The men want to make a difference in their communities. Photo supplied

Mabina says both young and old have shown interest, and the support has been great. It will be one of a kind in Ventersdorp, as they will leave the event as better people and contributors to their families and society.

The organisers said it's overwhelming that their partners, including women in general, have given them great support and messages of support.

OFM News/Joba Matsheng cgcg