The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

ARE women the real reason why men cheat? Or does a man’s decision to engage in an affair have less to do with the woman and more to do with deep-seated personal issues that can only be resolved through introspection?

“The Great Debate: Women Are The Real Reason Men Cheat” seeks to give answers to questions surrounding infidelity in relationships – a practice referred to in the Bahamas by the euphemism “sweethearting”.

The event will be held this Thursday at The Crab House, beginning at 7pm. It is being spearheaded by life coach and professional matchmaker Stanya Davis, whose aim it is to encourage discourse on a topic that has “waged war between the sexes for years”.

“Does the fault lie at our feet? Is it because we as women have dropped the ball and have not done what was expected and required? Or is the origin of why men cheat the result of something deeper and more profound? I am not sure of the answer, but the event will certainly clear up a few things for both men and women,” Ms Davis told Tribune Woman.

As the founder of Eve’s Journey, a life coaching institute, and Adam’s Journey, a recently launched matchmaking service, Ms Davis sees the debate as something that can merge all her interests, whether it is assisting people get their lives back on track or helping them find a suitable long-term partner.

“I figured it was a great way for Adam and Eve to coexist and also an excellent opportunity for Bahamians to clear the air, listen, learn and perhaps accept the views of another, or at least agree to disagree,” she said.

“The aim of this event is to discuss cultural and socially taboo subjects in a creative and fun way. It is my plan to host these debates throughout the year, each time introducing relevant topics that will promote and produce clarity, understanding and tolerance. Many times we are one-sided in our beliefs, voluntarily and involuntarily ignorant to the facts and opinions others, refusing to see through the eyes of another, or even to speak about situations and lifestyles that we know exist within our society. Therefore it was my desire to create a fun platform where we can come together peacefully and speak about these situations.”

“The Great Debate” event is divided into the women’s team – made up of Italia Williams, Shanica Kemp and Necole Watson – while the men’s team includes Utah Taylor, Anku Sa Ra and Nassau Cheaters.

Ms Davis said each participant was selected based on their unique personality, their personal experiences and “the fire” they could possibly bring to the stage.

“I mean, who better than a man whose nickname is ‘Controversy’, a man whose occupation is based on exposing cheaters or one who continues to uplift and educate our people about who we are and where we came from. At the same time, the women are just as phenomenal. The women who were selected bring passion, purpose and drive to this event. All of them are remarkable women who have dedicated their lives to empowering, supporting and helping women live authentically, and be beautiful just as we were created to be,” Ms Davis said.

“People can expect laughter, drama, real talk, fun, and more importantly useful information that will help them understand themselves and each other. I think the outcome of this event will be tolerance, understanding, acceptance, responsibility, knowledge, and perhaps in some cases forgiveness.”