International Men’s Day Awards Ceremony: A Celebration of Positive Male Role Models

Basseterre, St. Kitts –

The RAMADA Resort came alive on the evening of Saturday, November 30, 2024, as men from across the Federation gathered to celebrate the achievements and contributions of remarkable individuals at the International Men’s Day Awards Ceremony.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Marcus L. Natta, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address, challenging attendees to redefine the concept of a role model and embrace this year’s theme: “Promoting Positive Male Role Models.”

Keynote Address

Dr. Natta opened his speech with a striking quote from NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley’s 1993 Nike commercial: “I am not a role model.” Drawing on the controversial and reflective history behind Barkley’s words, he delved into the complexities of what it means to be a role model.

“Gentlemen, we must each become our own role models. The person you look up to, the person you strive to outdo, should not be anyone else but the man you see staring back at you in the mirror. Being a role model is about reflection, growth, and choosing, every day, to be better than the man you were yesterday,” said Dr. Natta, setting the tone for an evening of inspiration and introspection.

Conclusion

Dr. Natta urged the audience to move beyond societal expectations and embrace a deeply personal journey of self-improvement. He shared insights from his own life, including the profound influence of his late father and his aspirations for his sons, highlighting the importance of progress over perfection.

FAQs

What is the theme of this year’s International Men’s Day?

It is “Promoting Positive Male Role Models.”

What was the highlight of Dr. Natta’s keynote address?

The highlight was an interactive moment when he invited all the men present to take out their phones, open their cameras, and look at themselves in selfie mode, emphasizing that the person in the mirror should be the role model they strive to outdo every single day.

What is the responsibility for fostering positive male role models?

It lies with each individual, as emphasized by Dr. Natta, who challenged the audience to view their reflections as an opportunity for growth and to take deliberate steps toward becoming better versions of themselves.

Conclusion: The International Men’s Day Awards Ceremony was a resounding success, shining a spotlight on the achievements of men within the Federation and encouraging the pursuit of continuous personal growth.