The Diepsloot Men’s Forum (DMF) is leading the charge to break this mindset, reminding men that it’s okay to speak up, especially when they are hurting. The group believes men also deserve to be heard, supported, and cared for during tough times.
This comes as South Africa continues to face a serious crisis, with men making up nearly 80% of suicide cases. In Gauteng alone, the numbers are also very high, showing just how urgent the issue is in communities like Diepsloot.
DMF was founded by Bishop Dube, who opened up about his own painful experience of emotional abuse in his marriage. That personal journey pushed him to create a safe space where men can talk freely and not suffer in silence.
The forum is now calling on all men in Diepsloot to come forward, speak out, and support one another—something many grew up being told not to do. It’s not just for older men; even young boys dealing with bullying at school or in the streets are welcome.
The message is clear: real strength is speaking up, not suffering in silence.