The halls of Gaynstead High School in Kingston buzzed with excitement as Dr Rayon Dyer from The Kidz Klinik, led an empowerment session for the boys as part of the healthcare entity’s outreach for International Men’s Day, treating a group of young men to an empowering session. 

As the echoes of lively discussions filled the air, the young men shared their enthusiasm for the health-themed initiative, thoughtfully organised by The Kidz Klinik.

“The session was very interesting and fun to talk about as men, and as one unit. We really don’t talk about these things and we don’t know certain things about the body, because as men, we are taught to tough it out, so we are very insecure to ask certain questions. We learnt a lot and the session was very memorable and enjoyable,” expressed Kadeen Tomlinson, a grade 11 student and attendee.

The global theme for International Men’s Day, “Men’s Health Champions,” inspired a special gathering at Swallowfield-based School. The Kidz Klinik, a trusted medical service provider renowned for its paediatric care in Kingston, seized the moment to enlighten a select group of young men about the often-overlooked dimensions of men’s spiritual, sexual, and reproductive health, having a clear understanding of the vital role that healthcare plays in shaping the lives of young men. The event featured insightful presentations from Dr Rayon Dyer, a dedicated paediatrician at The Kidz Klinik, who practises general paediatric care, and Floyd Brown, a talented graphic designer, spiritual leader and proud former student of Gaynstead High School. 

Dr Dyer guided the young men through crucial topics related to male sexual health, such as the signs of sexual wellness, the physical and emotional transitions that accompany adulthood, and the importance of embracing sexual responsibility. He didn’t shy away from discussing the serious consequences that can arise from neglecting this responsibility, emphasising the need for awareness and knowledge in their journey to manhood, with the primary aim of equipping the young men with the critical insights they need to navigate their lives as health champions.

A strong sense of empowerment filled the room as Floyd Brown, a former head boy of Gaynstead, shared his journey, recounting the challenges he faced and resonating deeply with the young men present. He offered spiritual guidance and motivating insights on overcoming life’s obstacles and emphasised the importance of personal time, devotion to a higher calling and intentional self-improvement.

“The session was good. I learned new ways to be spiritually healthy, such as knowing right from wrong, doing self-reflection and taking time for yourself,” said Taje Downie, a grade 11 attendee.

An engaging Question and Answer segment resulted in attendees being rewarded for their quick thinking and sharp listening skills, as they copped giveaways during the hour. Dwayne Stewart, a teacher in the Mathematics department and one of the key organisers of the event expressed deep appreciation of the session, crediting it as a timely reminder. “One of the major takeaways from the empowerment session for me is that having spiritual health is vital in sustaining oneself to have the drive and motivation to get through life. I feel very much pleased about the session,” he shared.