Helping Men and Boys Live Longer, Happier, Healthier Lives is the theme for this year’s International Men’s Day (IMD).

On 19 November, the Cayman Islands, led by the Department of Counselling Services’ Family Resource Centre (FRC) in partnership with the Ministry of Community Affairs, Gender and Housing, will join other countries around the world who seek to shine a spotlight on the achievements of men and boys each year. There is also a focus on unique concerns of these individuals.

Men’s and boys’ health, their need for positive male role models as well as the state of gender relations and gender equality, are just some of the issues on which activities will focus.

Minister responsible for gender equality, Hon Mike Adam, MBE, JP said “In order to build a better society we have to build good men – and we do that by being role models for our sons as well as our daughters. Living up to these standards will not only help to instil strong values and morals, but it reflects that gender equality is not an option, but a way of life.”

IMD also pays tribute to the contributions that men and boys make to the community and the family through marriage and child care and other activities.

FRC’s programme of events begins with the 2^nd Annual International Men’s Day Football Tournament and Expo, at the Cayman Islands School Football Field on Saturday, 17 November 2012, at 8:30 am. The tournament offers a unique opportunity for men and boys to interact, as each team will consist of five men and five youth. Registration is now open at a cost of $15 for men and $5 for boys.

Teams are being sponsored by Davenport Development, Hydes & Sons, Island Taste and the Estella Scott-Roberts Foundation.

The expo portion of this event will consist of interactive booths from various companies and organizations that provide services for boys and men. This will be an opportunity for them to get involved in the community. Charities also have an option to raise funds.

Two nights later, on Monday, 19 November an Evening of Super-Men: Breaking Stereotypes at Grand Old House, also a sponsor, will bring families together to honour powerful men who have made an impact on the Cayman Islands community.

Calling for public participation, Miriam Foster FRC Programme Coordinator said, “We are inviting members of the public to put forward the names of men whom they would like to see recognised for qualities not often highlighted in males.”

Nomination categories are: Super Trustworthy, Super Listener, Super Dedicated, Super Friend, Super Respectful, Super Caring, Super Son, Super Dad, Super Grandpa and Super Uncle.

Interested persons should submit names to [email protected] by 15 November. These super-men will be recognized on the night.

The event will also include a special GIS video debut that features local children sharing their views on manhood. 1000 Man March organization will also highlight distinctive recipients as a part of their Man of Honour Award celebrations.

Families of all ages are invited to attend both events. Any proceeds will benefit services provided by FRC. For more information on IMD activities, to get your free tickets, reserve a booth space or become a sponsor, please contact Miriam Foster at 949-0006 or email [email protected].