Report from South Africa: Drawing on personal reserves and the community
by Anthony Eldridge Rogers
In these uncertain times, I find myself sitting in the Western Cape of South Africa. Today in midwinter is cold — not cold by many standards, yet chilly for us. This current drop in temperature mirrors a drop in confidence among men and women about their collective futures. For men working to feed and sustain their families, now is a time for deeply drawing on their personal reserves and community with others, men in particular.
In this space, The ManKind Project South Africa looks to the future and how we may be of service. Our mission is clear in many respects. We strive to broaden our base to become truly diverse and inclusive. We strive to acknowledge the shadow of economic and racial discrimination. Lastly, we strive to reach out farther and farther with open hearts.
Few moments are more awe-inspiring during a New Warrior Training Adventure (NWTA) in South Africa than standing on the Johannesburg training site situated a few kilometres from the Cradle of Mankind. Evidence suggests that all life began in Africa, so many of us can trace our roots back to this continent (if we go back 150,000 years).
For MKP SA, the year has been challenging and productive. Our two South African centres have completed three fully-subscribed NWTA’s with two more scheduled by the end of the year. In addition, we have run three “Head, Heart and Soul” trainings for various constituencies of young men, introducing them to personal growth work within men’s circles.
We celebrated this year the certification of two new co-leaders, Rurik McKaiser and Craig Henen. These certifications allow us to conduct more “home-led” NWTA weekends, reduce the cost (and environmental impact) of transporting outside leaders to South Africa, reduce the load on our two existing co-leaders, and shine a light more brightly for other men in the community wishing to step into leadership.
We also welcomed a new Centre Director, Andrew Fulton, who has brought a sharp clear energy and a sure sense of humour to the business of the community.
One forthcoming highlight of 2009 will be welcoming MKP co-founder Rich Tosi to our country. In August, Rich will lead our NWTA in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Together with his wife, Char, they are scheduled to lead a weekend workshop for couples.
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Anthony Eldridge Rogers is a coach and mentor living in Cape Town, South Africa. He specialises in recovery coaching based on 29 years of experience in 12 step living. His background is in the media, film, tv & marketing and has worked as director, producer, writer. |
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