On November 19 and December 12 and 13, Gagauzian youth
Nikolay Manev and Igor Popov organized and facilitated seminars in the cities
of Ceadîr-Lunga, Cahul, and Soroca on the subject "What it Means to Be a
Real Man.” Taking up the motto "Let’s become who we were born to be!",
these two high school students brought together their peers in each city to
open a discussion on such topics as, "the qualities of a real man"
and "the role of men in society." The primary goal of the seminars
was to inspire young men to aspire and commit to positively changing their conversations,
relationships, and service toward others. A total of 77 participants attended
the seminars (Ceadîr-Lunga – 30, Cahul
– 35, Soroca – 12). Because participants were similar in age and interests, an
open and friendly atmosphere was created in each seminar, which allowed for
deep and honest conversations to take place regarding the shortcomings of men
in society and the potential that exists for the next generation of men to be
known as “servant leaders” in their homes, communities, and workplaces.
With wonderful insights, participants came to
conclusions such as, “if you want make a change in the world, you must first
make a change within your own heart and mind,” and “real men are those who work
hard to care for their relatives and take responsibility for their words and
actions.”
As participants engaged in the conversations about the
qualities of honorable masculinity, they began to decide which changes they
would like to make in their own lives. One individual chose to work on reducing
his level of fear and anxiety when leading. Others chose to commit to becoming
more responsible in the way they think about and interact with women and girls.
In order to empower this change, the third portion of
the seminar was focused on motivation – seeking to convince participants that a
life of serving the needs of one’s family, community, and colleagues is the
most fulfilling and exciting life possible. These individuals came to the
conclusion that if they are to become true men, they must live not only for
themselves, but first for the good of their family and community. To close the
seminars, each participant was invited to sign a declaration, committing to
live a life focused on serving their wife, children, and community. All
participants were in agreement, signing and keeping their declaration as a
reminder of their aspirations toward “true masculinity.”
"I would like to give a special word of thanks to
the Turkish Lyceum "Orizont" and Winrock Moldova for financial
support, and to "Dacia" in Soroca for donating their space. Also,
many thanks to Vladimir Ormanzhi, who helped develop the materials and lectures
for the seminars," said Nikolay Manev. Igor Popov added, "We hope more
and more youth will discuss these important topics in the future within their
circle of friends. Learning how to lead well and be a man is one of the most
important subjects in life, and we are very appreciative of the great effort
our mentor, Matt Rutter, has given to help us grow and realize our
purposes." These young men are hopeful that these ideas starting from Gagauzia
will continue to spread to communities all across Moldova, sparking a
rejuvenation of loving husbands, fathers, and community members.
Written by Nikolay Manev
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