The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET 

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THE International Men’s Day (IMD) Bahamas organisation is set to host its church installation service this Sunday, February 23, at 3.30pm at Living Waters Kingdom Ministries - officially welcoming its newly elected officers.

Following the organisation’s recent elections on Monday, January 27, a new leadership team was selected to serve a three-year term, with Apostle Henry Higgins assuming the role of president. The event will mark the formal transition of leadership and reaffirm the organisation’s commitment to advocating for men’s health, fostering leadership, and promoting positive male role models in society.

Prominent government officials and community leaders have been invited to bring remarks at the service, including Prime Minister Philip Davis, Minister of Social Services Myles Laroda, Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe, Leader of the Official Opposition Michael Pintard, and Bahamas Christian Council president Bishop Delton Fernander.

This year, men’s health and well-being remain at the forefront of IMD Bahamas’ mission, aligning with the overarching goals of International Men’s Day, observed globally on November 19.

“The IMD is a group of men that focuses on promoting positive male role models and celebrating positive contributions made by men in our society, while trying to improve gender relations and equality to eliminate discrimination against men. 

It is also our hope and goal to ensure safer and better communities and encourage young men to become leaders of the society. This year our focus is on men’s health and wellbeing,” said Apostle Higgins.

Addressing these issues head-on is crucial for ensuring healthier and stronger communities. The organization’s goal is to equip men with knowledge and support systems to navigate various challenges.

The International Men’s Day (IMD) has been actively engaging men and boys through initiatives like the Men and Boys March and Rally, held last October at Christie Park. Themed “Men Health Champions: Mental Health Matters,” the event aimed to highlight men’s health issues, encourage mentorship, and unify male-focused organisations.

“Mental health is an area this nation has been running away from, but we must deal with it. We are committed to bringing awareness to the many issues that men face, including parental alienation, abuse, homelessness, suicide, and violence,” Apostle Higgins emphasised. Apostle Higgins believes that exposing boys to positive male role models is key to shaping their future.

“In most cases, young people become a product of their environment. Showcasing positive role models will encourage them to work towards becoming role models themselves some day,” he said.

To further this mission, the organisation plans to host a series of workshops and seminars, organised community walkabouts, events, and recognize outstanding men. With the installation service this Sunday, IMD Bahamas continues to solidify its place as a driving force for male empowerment, health advocacy, and community building in The Bahamas.