{"id":5810,"date":"2025-11-24T03:02:17","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T03:02:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/xxplore.co.za\/?p=5810"},"modified":"2026-05-19T04:03:26","modified_gmt":"2026-05-19T04:03:26","slug":"reflections-from-the-ibandla-mens-conversation-men-we-aspire-to-be","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/xxplore.co.za\/index.php\/2025\/11\/24\/reflections-from-the-ibandla-mens-conversation-men-we-aspire-to-be\/","title":{"rendered":"Reflections from the Ibandla Men\u2019s Conversation – \u201cMen We Aspire to Be\u201d"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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M<\/span>e<\/span>n<\/span> w<\/span>e<\/span> a<\/span>s<\/span>p<\/span>i<\/span>r<\/span>e<\/span> t<\/span>o<\/span> b<\/span>e<\/span><\/span><\/span> <\/h4>\n <\/div><\/div>

Reflections from the Ibandla Men\u2019s Conversation<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

In November, the Ibandla Men\u2019s Forum at the conneXXion hosted a Men\u2019s Conversation themed Men We Aspire to Be<\/strong>, an open and engaging dialogue that created space for men to reflect, share experiences, and support one another.<\/p>\n

The session formed part of the recognition of Men\u2019s Health Month in November, a time dedicated to raising awareness about men\u2019s wellbeing and encouraging reflection on how men show up at work, at home, and in society. It reminded us that strength is rooted in self-awareness, empathy, and purpose, and that growth begins when we choose to lead with intention.<\/p>\n

Ibandla, which means \u201ca gathering\u201d in isiZulu and isiXhosa, represents unity and shared purpose. At Exxaro, this idea comes to life through the Ibandla Men\u2019s Forum, which was launched to give men a platform to connect, reflect, and engage on topics such as mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and leadership. It forms part of our ongoing commitment to building a culture where everyone feels valued, supported, and included, and where men are encouraged to lead with integrity and accountability.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

\ue06a<\/span><\/span><\/div>

The conversation began with welcoming remarks from Johan Meyer, Executive Head: Metals, who reminded attendees of the importance of authenticity and courage in leadership. He shared, \u201cSociety needs us as men to step up and do the right thing. Real strength for men is asking for help\u201d.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Watch video<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Guest speakers Bongani Miya, author and purpose advocate, Pierre Spies, former Springbok and voice for positive impact, and Abner Mariri, co-founder of Promise Keepers and Director of the National Centre for Fathering SA, each shared powerful reflections.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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In November, the Ibandla Men\u2019s Forum at the conneXXion hosted a Men\u2019s Conversation themed \u201cMen We Aspire to Be\u201d, an open and engaging dialogue that created space for men to reflect, share experiences, and support one another. <\/p>\n

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