Bali Retreat Connecting Men: Redefining Friendship in Modern Times

In our rapidly evolving society, the call for gender equality is louder and more critical than ever, and rightly so. Women have been and still remain underrepresented across most sectors. It's essential to discuss topics that, while potentially sensitive, can contribute positively to the dialogue. As a senior cybersecurity leader and business owner, with a long-standing commitment to championing women's rights and promoting gender equality, I also reflect on the value of male friendship groups and its role in today’s world. My upcoming participation in an all-men’s retreat in Bali for entrepreneurs, with a focus on physical and mental health, will be a journey of self-discovery and personal growth which has inspired me to share my thoughts on this subject.

First, it's crucial to acknowledge our progress toward gender equality, with still more to do. Throughout my career, I've strongly supported women's professional growth. From launching award-winning women-only programs at the bank to leading initiatives in Africa for women and achieving over 50% female representation in my cyber security leadership team at the bank. At the Cyber Leadership Institute (CLI), we’ve partnered with women's groups to offer free scholarships and discounts, with the aim of addressing imbalances in cybersecurity. My dedication to gender equality remains steadfast, especially because I want my twin daughters to enjoy the same rights as men in both the workplace and their personal endeavors.

Despite these efforts, men in a broader context face unique challenges that need attention. The retreat in Bali isn't about excluding women but about creating a space for men to connect, reflect, and grow. In a world where men are often expected to suppress their emotions and "tough it out," these retreats aim to provide an environment for open discussion and emotional support. Male friendship can foster a sense of camaraderie and support that is often missing in our daily lives. Just as women benefit from women-only spaces, men too could gain from similar supportive environments. These bonds can improve mental health, foster better-coping strategies, and lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. The retreat in Bali offers an opportunity for men to explore physical and mental health deeply, away from the pressures of everyday responsibilities in a strictly no-alcohol environment.

Prioritizing my mental and physical health has been fundamental to my life for many years, and I credit this commitment in large part for any successes and achievements I may have had. My daily gym sessions and commitment to walking at least 10,000 steps a day are not just about staying in shape; they are about maintaining the energy and stamina needed to meet the demands of both a career and running a business. In the fast-paced and high-stakes world of cybersecurity, where stress and burnout are common, regular meditation provides a powerful way to stay focused, composed, and resilient. For over five years, I have relied on this essential practice, meditating at least twice a day. But missing from this equation is friendship, which arguably is even more important for our mental health.

Majority of my friendships have sadly been neglected over the years, we either just lost touch or simply didn't have the same things in common anymore. We all change, but making new genuine friendships isn't easy. This retreat could be an opportunity for me to make new friends, reflect, and gain new perspectives that I can bring back to my professional and personal life. Conversely, it might not be the place where I make new friends, but knowing the value of friendships, I'm determined to address this more broadly, no matter how uncomfortable it might be, especially as an introvert. As I contemplate a new chapter in my life, the topic of creating spaces and communities for men to connect and, dare I say, make genuine friends, will be something I'll be giving more attention to

In conclusion, While my participation in an all-men’s retreat may seem at odds with my commitment to gender equality, it could be a crucial step in addressing the unique challenges faced by men, and indeed those specific to my needs. I can’t say for sure what impact this experience will have, but I’m going in with an open mind. I look forward to sharing the insights and experiences from this retreat by documenting my journey in a series of video posts here on LinkedIn and other social media platforms.

Interested in your thoughts? Is there a need for these spaces for men? Also feel free to contact me via direct message if you prefer.

"Internet searches for male-only detoxes and retreats are up 200% compared with last year, according to bookretreats"