International Men’s Day

International Men’s Day 2022 is all about men who lead by example and celebrating worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities and highlighting positive role models.

The majority of us are privileged to know or have known a great male role model in life. It isn’t all about the huge things, heroic acts and saving the world as we see in the movies, it is often the little things in life that help others to shine; the dad who is always there for their kids, the brother who never gives up on his dreams, the son who holds their hand out to the kid no one wants to play with, the friend who always finds time to check in on others, or the teacher or colleague that goes out of their way to give someone a confidence boost. It could even be the stranger who unexpectedly helps out, does a good turn, or steps up to call out poor behaviour from others.

All of these things matter hugely. They matter to the people who are on the receiving end of the actions, as well as to others that observe them. Some people are blessed to be surrounded by positive male role models in their close circles, others may have to look further afield, but the bottom line is that often, the people who inspire us never get to find out how much it matters. So, the team at TrakCel thought we would take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate some of the everyday things that have that positive impact.

My dad…

Has always been completely amazing, from reading bedtime stories every night when we were little, even when he had been in work all day with an hour commute each way and knew he would be working until gone midnight on his MBA to career advice, proof-reading and endless support as an adult. He is and will always be my superman – and now super grandad.

My teacher…

I was always the quiet kid in the corner, and often the new kid as we moved a lot when I was young. I would never have put myself forward as a ‘house captain’ as I didn’t think anyone would vote for me but he persuaded me and I got ‘vice-captain’. A little encouragement goes a long way.

My brother…

Although he’s my younger brother, he has always been wise beyond his years. Growing up with 3 sisters, and the only male in our household, he was understanding, caring and extremely patient. My shoulder to cry on, my sensible head when I needed advice, and the one person who never gave up. My brother fell in love with boxing from a young age and every Tuesday when I was able to drive, I would drop him to his training sessions, and be the loudest one at the side of the ring when he was competing. He didn’t win all his fights but each time he fought with more determination, courage and strength, inspiring me to never give up on my dreams. My brother will always be my one positive role model that I can fully rely on.   

My colleague…

He always makes an effort to chat and ask people how they are, even when I just joined (the company). When you have days where life stuff feels overwhelming, having someone ask how things are and really listen to the answer makes a big difference.

My son…

Two members of our family suffer from diabetes type 1 and he has gone out of his way to memorise the signs and symptoms that indicate that they might need help and what he needs to tell another adult or the emergency services should there ever be a problem when they are alone together. The other day I overheard him explaining to his six year old brother about what to tell the ambulance people if either relative “falls over and can’t get up.”

My Father-in-law…

As a child I always wanted to be a daddy’s girl, and I used to be sad I didn’t experience that with my own father, that I was robbed of that relationship. But my father-in-law has given it back. He took me in when he didn’t have to, supported me through challenges and I know if I needed him, he’d be there without hesitation – especially if something needs fixing! I can count on him to drink me under the table with a vodka or 10 and tell the worst dad jokes (usually inappropriate…but make me laugh every time!)

He is also a fantastic father to his own children. He raised a wonderful son, who is fantastic and loving, and in turn, the most incredible daddy to his own daughter. I’m thankful to him for so many things, especially raising his son as he did. We’re not related by blood, but in my heart, he will always be my Dad.

My fellow runner…

I’m part of a local running club and am always inspired by one of the guys who at age 78, runs with the club every week, runs and volunteers at Park Run every Saturday and leads groups of all ages on the couch to 5k run program several times a year.

Thank you to all the team members who took the time to share something about the amazing men in their lives, and we at TrakCel would like to wish Happy International Men’s Day to all the men and boys out there who bring positivity into the lives of others.

More information can be found on their website – International Men’s Day.