09/06/2026
There’s something incredibly special about the Whole Man Group that fills my heart every single month.
I love the listening to the banter between the guys before and after each session, the big smiles, firm handshakes, and big hugs from mates who haven’t seen each other for a month. It’s a special, unique space where men arrive early, excited to find a space, have a chat, and connect. There’s no pressure to be anything other than yourself.
Whole Man started back in mid-2024 after a one-on-one session with a man who told me he had no support and didn’t know where to go. That conversation sparked something inside me. I decided to run a four-week program in November to raise money for men’s mental health.
At the end of those four weeks, I asked everyone to describe the experience in a couple of words. One man simply said, “Loss.” I asked him what he meant, and he replied, “Loss… because the program is finished.”
That hit me deep.
I said I’d be happy to continue if the men themselves stepped up and helped find speakers. Almost immediately, one of the guys put his hand up to be the next speaker. He was brilliant! Since then, so many incredible men have shared their stories, and the group has continued to grow.
It is a honour to hold space for these amazing men here in Ōtautahi, to listen to such wonderful inspiring speakers who share their journeys and knowledge, and to watch the guys commit to their own personal growth each month. Seeing men expand their self-awareness, connect with their emotions, and support one another is incredibly humbling.
Every speaker they thank fully, for sharing their stories and insights, realising that the story resonated with their own. They inspire one another, support one another, and truly witness each other without judgment.
The only sad part is that there needs to be many more groups like this. Every man deserves a place where he feels seen, heard, supported, and understood.
I also think the guys really love the second part of the evening, when I guide them into a deep state of relaxation through a crystal bowl sound journey. It's often the first time in weeks, that they've truly allowed themselves to slow down, let go, and simply be.
Looking back, I sometimes laugh and think life was preparing me for this all along. As a young teenager, I'd be in pubs playing pool, often the only girl there, drinking pints as quickly as the guys. I had a season pass for West Ham United in UK spending weekends surrounded by thousands of passionate men in the stands. I always seemed comfortable in male environments.
Now, years later, I feel incredibly privileged to create a space where men can connect, share, laugh, reflect, and simply be themselves.
