International Men's Day Event: You Alright Mate?

You alright mate? But are you actually alright?

Actually asking and answering the question more often than not get's glossed over. This example of dismissal is a reflection of the amount work to be done to normalise men talking about their wellbeing and mental health. In reflection of International Men’s Day, Sam Thomas and Bud Johnston have teamed up to chip away at this narrative and raising awareness of the unacceptable suicide rate in men.

Join us on Tueday 19th November at Projects in Brighton to learn more, support others and explore support for yourself.

Tickets are only £25 for this event.

If cost is a barrier please enter "FREE" code when purchasing a ticket.

NO questions asked. We Trust your honesty.

We’re in this together…

EVENT AGENDA:

6:30pm Arrival

7:00pm Session Starts - Check ins

7:30pm Panel Discussion

8:15pm Break out and Small Group Sessions

9:00pm Thank You and CLOSE

ABOUT THE PANEL

Sam Thomas - Co Host and Panel Facilitator
Sam is a multifaceted entrepreneur with a decade of experience. He firmly believes that with determination, anything is achievable. He is passionate about helping businesses connect through the power of storytelling.

In 2021, Sam launched the Different Hats Podcast, providing a platform for peers to share their life stories and inspire others. His mission is to combat the stigma surrounding mental health and help reduce the suicide rate in the UK by redefining what success looks like.

Bud Johnston - Co Host and Panelist

Bud is a self-starter and visionary leader with a passion for innovation and inclusive organisation practices. Fostering healthy cultures within the various communities he serves & operates in is top priority.

These include the Black Anti-Racism Community Organisation cic, Men of Melanin and Boxless ltd.In 2022 Bud co-founded Men of Melanin to provide a space for men of colour to simply hang out and talk. Through the lived experience from his own journey Bud believes supportive community is a powerful force in men’s mental wellbeing.

Daniel Gainsford - Founder and creator of Way of the Viking Mens Mental fitness

The way of the viking program combines behavior change, fitness, competition, camaraderie, and nature to help men rediscover their passion for life and well-being. Our goal is to support men in feeling happier, more positive, and open to vulnerability, leading to greater strength in all areas of life.

Motivated by personal loss to suicide, our mission is to take a proactive approach to men's mental health. We believe that open conversations among like-minded individuals can improve health, wealth, and overall well-being. Our ultimate aim is to reduce the male suicide rate, which currently accounts for 75% of suicides, through this preventive, supportive approach.

Joel Lawton - Founder of In Your Corner

Joel Lawton spends his time creating, curating & hosting environments that center the human experience. He believes that within these spaces we do more impactful work, whilst avoiding burnout and disconnection, as demonstrated through his coaching & consulting with In Your Corner.

He also leads IceBreakers Brighton, a free cold water dipping men’s community and co-facilitates ‘Finding Fatherhood’ a therapist facilitated peer support group for men navigating fatherhood.

Jaden Carter - Dad La Soul Volunteer

Jaden Carter, a father to a 10-year-old girl, joined Dad La Soul two years ago, seeking connection and support. Initially attending a Dad’s Only event, he was drawn to the community, finding a place free of judgment and filled with genuine connections.

Dad La Soul's support helped Jaden navigate his emotions and ultimately gain full custody of his daughter. Inspired by his experience, Jaden now plays an active role in the organization, using his event management skills to coordinate events and oversee volunteers.

For Jaden, Dad La Soul has become more than a group—it’s a family that transformed his life.

Host or Publisher Jackie Ashwood