Students at Lewisham College took part in an engaging and thought-provoking discussion on healthy masculinity led by Voicebox, a company who aim to tackle gender stereotypes, misogyny and promote mental well-being through sessions that support personal development and open conversations.
The session explored how ideas around masculinity have evolved over time and the impact these changes have on young people today, focusing on the shift away from traditional gender roles and how expectations of men have changed as work and family life have evolved.
Julian Spooner from Voicebox, said: “For a long time, men had a clear, defined role in society, but that has changed massively. Many jobs that once shaped ideas of masculinity no longer exist, leaving some men unsure of their place in the world.”
The discussion also examined the role of social media in shaping perceptions of masculinity. Julian highlighted both its positives and negatives: “Social media has amplified voices that were previously unheard, but at the same time, it has fuelled backlash against these changes. It’s not the best place for complex conversations—we need to have these discussions face-to-face, where real understanding and empathy can grow.”
Encouraging students to reflect on their own experiences, Julian emphasised the importance of self-awareness: “Every day, we all face the struggle between what’s expected of us and how we want to be. Helping young people think about this gives them more control over how they express themselves and navigate the world.”
The session sparked meaningful discussions among students and reinforced the importance of open conversations about gender expectations.
Lewisham College is committed to providing opportunities which help students develop a deeper understanding of the social issues that shape their lives.
