MANifest
A free program to prevent
gender-based violence (GBV)
MANifest was designed for
youth ages 13 to 24 who identify as male or masculine. The program combined mental health supports, discussion-based learning, and arts-based approaches to help participants explore identity, communication, gender norms, power, and relationships.
Through a series of interactive workshops, discussions, and activities, participants delved into critical topics such as power dynamics, patriarchy, intersectionality, and their relationship to gender-based violence (GBV).
Our program was dedicated to preventing GBV, supporting survivors, facilitating healing, and seeking justice through collaborative solutions.
MANifest was delivered across schools, community centres, libraries, and social services agencies in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. The project also included online participation, which helped extend access beyond the region. Youth from more than 20 ethnic backgrounds took part, including newcomer, racialized, and Indigenous participants. Programming was delivered in multiple languages, including English and Kinyarwanda in person, to help reduce barriers and increase accessibility.
Community-Based Delivery
The program supported participants in developing more nuanced and inclusive understandings of masculinity, moving beyond rigid stereotypes.
Program Outcomes
The program supported participants in developing more nuanced and inclusive understandings of masculinity, moving beyond rigid stereotypes. Pre- and post-program findings showed
21%
increase in valuing emotional vulnerability
Over 75%
committed to intervention in harmful situations
More inclusive understandings
of masculinity and allyship developed through the program
Client opinion
– What was the most valuable idea you learned in this program?
“Uburyo wakwitwara mugihe mbonye braruhohoteronawgwa haruhoho terwa. Twizeko twa bikemura ubwacu og kubigezakubabishinzwe - Kinyarwanda language
Translation: How [one can] [act] when [they] see that [someone] [is] being abused. [I] hope [this] [can] be resolved by [us] and by those [that are] responsible.
If you have any questions about this program please contact