Young men in the Free State have gathered in Paul Roux to discuss issues affecting society. This is part of the Department of Social Development's commemoration of International Mens Day this week .
The day, celebrated on the 19th of November, aims to break down stereotypes and encourage men to have conversations on matters affecting them.
Some of the young men who attended the event had this to say.
"Eighty percent of men end up with suicide because of substance abuse, depression and the high rate of unemployment and poverty. This actually leads to suicide if men cant provide for their families, cant take care of their children or even put bread on the table. They end up committing suicide."
"I just want to be a good father in future to my children because Ive joined this thing and I will start to join counselling so that I can be a good person inside the community and my family. My message is that we have to have self-esteem and also self-control."
