International Men’s Day (IMD), observed globally on 19 November, provides an annual opportunity to highlight the positive contributions men and boys make to society while raising awareness of the challenges they face. The 2025 theme, “Supporting Men and Boys,” encourages open, inclusive conversations around wellbeing, masculinity, support, and community.

This year’s theme places a strong emphasis on men’s mental and physical health, championing the importance of reducing stigma and ensuring men feel ableto seek help when they need it. IMD also celebrates positive male role models—those who lead with compassion, empathy, and service.

How PEGS Is Celebrating Men This International Men’s Day

PEGS (Parental Education Growth Support) is marking International Men’s Day 2025 by celebrating men from across the UK and beyond who are creating safer, stronger, and more supportive communities. Through its national platform and outreach, PEGS is showcasing individuals from a wide range of sectors - including social care, education, policing, community development, academic research, journalism, and the charity sector.

Michelle John, Founding Director of PEGS, said:

"International Men’s Day is an opportunity to recognise the incredible contributions of men who are quietly making a real difference in their communities. From volunteering and mentoring to advocating for mental health and wellbeing, these men show that leadership and compassion go hand in hand. At PEGS, we are proud to champion them and to inspire others to support and uplift the men and boys around them."

This year, PEGS has produced a national list featuring both UK-based and international men who exemplify the IMD theme. Among them are representatives from Brightstar Boxing, Family Lives, Prism Training, Halton Local Authority, Mankind Initiative, ITV News, domestic abuse services, academic institutions, and charitable organisations. Their stories show the positive impact that compassionate male leadership can have on families, services, and communities.

Meet the Men We’re Celebrating for International Men’s Day 2025

We are proud to recognise the following individuals for their contributions, compassion, and commitment to supporting others:

• Joe Lockley – Brightstar Boxing
  
  
• Jez Todd – Family Lives
  
  
• Jordan Alexander – Prism Training
  
  
• Warren Betts – Halton Local Authority
  
  
• Ed Carney – Specialist Domestic Abuse Trainer
  
  
• Richie Fletcher – Cheshire East DASU
  
  
• Rasul Freelain – When Lambs Become Wolves
  
  
• Brent Plant – PhD Student, Roehampton University
  
  
• Andy Smith – Smash Life
  
  
• Lee Chambers – Male Allies UK
  
  
• Simon Franc – Founder of Kulpa
  
  
• Martin Jones – Sandy Bear
  
  
• Josh Brooks – ITV News Journalist
  
  
• Adam Fejfer – The Qube
  
  
• Matt Collins – MC Events
  
  
• Stephan Burton-Pye – Paycare
  
  
• Lee Davies – West Mercia Police
  
  
• Luke O Driscoll & Marco Mollo – VML
  
  
• Andy Bunston – The VC Gallery
  
  
• Tony Gilfillan – Manchester City Council
  
  
• Mark Brookes MBE – Mankind Initiative
  
  
• Andy Newman – PEGS Board Member
  
  
• Sean Warrender – PEGS Volunteer
  
  

These men come from all walks of life, but each one plays a significant role in supporting men and boys, challenging stigma, and contributing to safer, happier communities.

Why Celebrating Men Matters

International Men’s Day is an opportunity to grow understanding, break down stereotypes, and strengthen the systems of support that benefit men and boys. When we highlight the work of positive male role models, we:

• promote healthier attitudes around masculinity
  
  
• encourage conversations around mental health
  
  
• inspire others to give back to their communities
  
  
• normalise seeking support and connection
  
  
• celebrate the value of compassion, resilience, and service
  
  

At PEGS, we believe that by lifting up these stories, we help foster communities where every man feels able to show vulnerability, access support, and thrive.

Standing Together for International Men’s Day 2025

As communities across the UK host workshops, talks, wellbeing events, and conversations centred around men’s mental health, we are reminded of the power of connection. Supporting men and boys isn't just something we do on one day a year - it’s something we commit to as a collective.

This International Men’s Day, we celebrate the men who make a difference. We thank them for their impact, their compassion, and their commitment to helping others. And as always, PEGS remains dedicated to championing those who work tirelessly to make our communities safer, stronger, and more supportive for all.