I am one of the MHS VP’s. I am going into my 4th year at McMaster, studying Communications.

 

Our society holds a number stereotypes that males are subject to live up to in order to be considered a “man”. These standards essentially outline the way a typical man should act, feel and portray himself.

 

It’s important to realize the walls men put up to protect their image, can affect many aspects of life such as family, friendships, relationships and more. It’s more of a social norm for a male to keep quiet than to start or engage in a conversation pertaining to emotions and feelings. This norm leads to many feeling like they can not show emotion or express a certain type of creativity because of the standards that have been set out.

 

As a lifelong athlete, I have done my best to live up to certain standards that have been set out by sport. There’s a stigma surrounding men and their ability to seek help when needed or engage in difficult conversations. Often, men don’t speak on personal issues as they may feel vulnerable due to society’s construct of a man.

 

I am excited to work with MHS and start these important conversations within the community while driving a culture of transparency and compassion.