A rallying cry for men and teenaged boys to “be the change” they want to see in life has been released.

Boys and men have been invited to the Be the Change Men’s Event, where three speakers will address the challenges that Bermudian men and boys face and how they can tackle the societal problems they may face.

Paul Richards, an organiser, said that, while there were many stable and successful men on the island, “many things have happened over the last few decades that have negatively impacted the lives of boys, men and their families”.

He added: “Gang violence, a lack of due care on the roads, economic challenges, substance abuse, crime and imprisonment are just a few of the obstacles that some teen and adult men must overcome.

“The idea to have an event of this kind was sparked by a belief that, if men could have an opportunity to be open with one another and talk about ‘real’ issues, then positive change would occur.”

The organisers have set an “ambitious” goal of having 2,000 participants at the event.

Attendees have been asked to participate in weekly follow up Zoom meetings that would encourage the development of a “manhood plan”.

Schoolboys who invited men to the event may receive a ticket that will allow them a grub day at participating schools.

Youngsters can also receive community service hours for volunteering to help with the set-up and break-down of the event.

Be the Change will be held this Saturday from 5pm to 7pm at the north field of the National Sports Centre in Devonshire.

For more information, e-mail bethechangebda@gmail.com