30th ANNIVERSARY OF THE MANKIND PROJECT IN UK& I AT THE SILVER SKY FESTIVAL

I am much looking forward to the celebration of The ManKind Project’s 30 years in the UK & Ireland as part of the gorgeous Silver Sky Festival near Horsham in Sussex from 19th – 21st July 2024. I encourage you all to come join this event with other MKP men, their partners and their families.

To mark this significant anniversary, MKP will integrate fully into the festival: several of the UK & I founders will be part of a special ceremony on Saturday evening, there will be a delicious feast organised by our very own Tim Clements, much of the music will be played by MKP men and many of the workshops/performances held over the weekend will be led by our brothers.

The Silver Sky Festival is a coming together of UK & Ireland tribes including MKP and Woman Within. Over three days, with fifty workshops, music, dancing, feasting and laughter, this is a great opportunity to meet up with other men and perhaps women with whom you have travelled your journey. 

At the last Silver Sky Festival, I attended 4 or 5 workshops, listened to the MKP (mostly) band, danced 5 Rhythms, ate delicious food, drank delicious coffee and alcohol and generally had a wonderful time. The mood was celebratory, alongside opportunities to attend workshops for deeper work, to connect to the land, to root oneself in ritual.

Particularly enjoyable was reconnecting with men and women whom I have met over the years since I did my New Warrior Training Adventure who came from Shadow Work, Tantra, MKP, abandofbrothers, Woman Within, Women in Power, Journeyman, Celebration of Being and even from a dating app (shhhh)!

This year, The ManKind Project will have its own designated tent where men can circle, check-in and connect. I so hope that tent is filled this year, particularly as it is the 30th anniversary of when men trained in the USA first brought MKP to the UK. Since then, our community has expanded and progressed yet at its core remains unchanged in its mission and I always find it joyful to meet up with men who not only have done the work but who share the experiences of the Weekend, the PIT, the leader and staff trainings, the staffings and MoS work whether men have stayed tight to the MKP fold or whether they have spun out wider into the community.

Silver Sky was previously held in 2022 north of London and this year the festival will be in the 100-acre grounds of the spectacular Gaveston Hall, near Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6RG. The expansive fields afford space for camping and campervans, children’s activities and tennis, walking in nature, perhaps a five-a-side game, in addition to the long list of workshops, theatrical and musical performances and that MKP Founders Ceremony on Saturday evening.

Right now, the tents are booking up and the musicians are rehearsing. The timetable is being finalised but there are always room for more workshops should you feel called to bring your passion/training/interest to share with others over the weekend. 

Silver Sky would also be grateful for anyone willing to lend a hand on Friday for set-up  and Sunday for tear-down of the site or just to help for an hour or two over the weekend to move tables and chairs. 

Tickets are still available here.

More info about the festival, including a shortlist of what is happening, can be found at www.silverskyfestival.com

And if you would like to offer a workshop, tell a story around the fire, sing a song or be part of the crew, please contact Melissa: silverskyfestival@gmail.com

I am pleased to say that many MKP men have already booked their tickets to please join us next month at Silver Sky. Bring your family, tell your iGroup or just bring yourself to Gaveston Hall from 19th-21st July. We shall celebrate MKP UK&I’s 30th in style!

- Mark F, MKP Member.

June is Pride Month- Join Us

We celebrate Pride month to publicly include and acknowledge all members of our families and communities who identify as LGBTQ+ and in the past had to hide who they were. 

Pride month is also about acceptance, equality, celebrating the work of LGBTQ+ people, education in LGBTQ+ history and raising awareness of issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.

It also celebrates the Stonewall riots in New York, acknowledged by many as a significant part of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

Many Pride events will take place across the UK, Ireland, and many other countries over the month of June while they may seem fun and light-hearted the very series message at their heart is one of visibility and raising awareness of our existence.

Over the past few years’ members of the MKP UK&I GBTQ+ community and our allies have worked to make MKP more welcoming and inclusive for us. Most of our events are aimed primarily at those who use the pro-nouns he/him/his.

Initiatives include –

RICC (Rainbow Initiated Connection Circle) – A connection circle that takes place on the third Monday of each month specifically for GBTQ+ identifying members of MKP UK&I and other MKP communities. This is a space for us to connect and support each other in our journeys. 

ROCC (Rainbow Open Connection Circle) – Takes place on the fourth Monday of each month. Once again, this space is specifically for those who identify as GBTQ+. Unlike RICC, ROCC is open to anyone who identifies as GBTQ+ and is a great introduction to the work that we do within MKP.

To ensure that we are sensitive to the needs of our attendees ROCC’s facilitators also members of the GBTQ+ communities.

You can sign up for the next event HERE.

Gateway NWTA for GBTQ+ - The first gateway NWTA for GBTQ+ took place in October 2023. It is identical to our flagship training the New Warrior Training Adventure (NWTA) but has been tailored to empower GBTQ+ individuals. Most participants and staff on the GBTQ+ Gateway NWTA are from the GBTQ+ community. 

The next Gateway NWTA for GBTQ+ is scheduled to take place in October 2024 at Unstone Grange (for more information https://mankindprojectuki.org/nwta-register-gbtq-gateway-wp ).

It’s been an exciting couple of years for us going from never even imagining that we could organise a GBTQ+ training based on the NWTA to working towards making the second one a reality. It’s also been a great opportunity to connect and work with other GBTQ+ folks from other centres.

For more information about the above initiatives or how to sign up for the GBT+ Gateway please get in contact HERE.

MKP UK&I Trustee, Royston John's TEDx Talk: Unveiling the Impact of Windrush

We're thrilled to share Royston John's impactful TEDx Talk, a longtime ManKind Project member and trustee of MKP UK&I. In "The Windrush Impact: A Journey of Reflection," Royston bravely unfolds the profound effects of the Windrush migration on both adults and children.

Royston, known for delivering NCBI Equality, Diversity, and Equity workshops, was unexpectedly invited by fellow MKPUK&I man Richard Jones to share his life journey on a TEDx platform. This talk becomes a testament to the diverse experiences within our community, echoing Royston's hope that more men will find the courage to share their stories.

In this captivating talk, Royston takes us through his life's unexpected twists, from Trinidad to Grenada as a child and finally to England. His narrative, both harrowing and honest, reflects on the challenges faced during a period 60 years ago and how the Windrush phenomenon continues to impact third-generation children today.

Royston's extensive professional background as a senior manager and his transition to roles like Business Coach and EDI Specialist add depth to his insights. Having delivered over 700 workshops, Royston's commitment to building a better world is evident in his focus on compassion, connection, and humanity.

This TEDx Talk isn't just a personal narrative; it represents the strength in vulnerability within the ManKind Project. Royston exemplifies the power of storytelling to foster understanding and unity.

Watch Royston John's TEDx Talk here and share it with others. As a member of MKP, trustee for MKP UK&I, and active in the EDI group, Royston contributes significantly to our community's growth.

Let's celebrate Royston's courage and look forward to more opportunities for men to share, connect, and contribute within the ManKind Project UK&I.

The Power of Men's Groups: Discover Connection, Support, and Growth with MKP UK&I

“In union, there is strength.” - Aesop

Men's groups have been a part of human history for centuries, offering a space for men to come together, share experiences, and find support in their life journeys. The power of these gatherings lies in the genuine connections that are formed, the mutual support shared, and the collective growth experienced. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of men's groups in general and why you should consider trying one of our free, online Connection Groups with the ManKind Project UK&I.

The Value of Men's Groups

In a world where men often face societal expectations to be strong, independent, and self-reliant, the idea of joining a men's group might raise questions. However, these groups offer numerous advantages that can significantly enhance personal growth and emotional well-being:

1. Authentic Connections: Men's groups provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be your true self. Authenticity is encouraged, leading to meaningful connections with like-minded men who understand your journey.

2. Emotional Well-Being: Sharing your thoughts and feelings with others can be a powerful way to address emotional challenges, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health. Men's groups offer a space to open up and discuss what's on your mind.

3. Personal Growth: Being part of a group that focuses on self-improvement and self-discovery can lead to profound personal growth. You can gain valuable insights and tools to navigate life's challenges effectively.

4. Brotherhood: Men's groups foster a sense of brotherhood, where you can find both support and inspiration. The bonds formed in these groups often extend beyond the meetings, creating a network of friends and allies.

Why Choose an MKP UK&I Connection Group?

The ManKind Project UK&I offers a unique opportunity for men to experience the benefits of men's groups through our Connection Groups. Here's why you should consider joining us:

1. Inclusivity: Our Connection Groups are open to men from all backgrounds and walks of life. We embrace diversity and create a space where every man can find a sense of belonging.

2. Experienced Volunteers: Our groups are led by experienced volunteers who create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. They guide discussions and ensure that each member has the opportunity to share and be heard.

3. Online Convenience: Our Connection Groups are conducted online, making them accessible and convenient. You can participate from the comfort of your own home, eliminating geographical barriers.

4. A Commitment to Growth: We are committed to helping men grow, connect, and support one another. Our Connection Groups offer a structured yet flexible approach to personal development.

5. Free of Charge: To encourage participation and make this experience accessible to all, our Connection Groups are entirely free.

How to Get Started

Participating in an MKP UK&I Connection Group is easy and accessible. Here's how to get started:

1. Explore Our Groups: Visit our website to explore the available Connection Groups and find one that aligns with your interests and schedule.

2. Register for Free: Simply register for the group of your choice. Our groups are free to join.

3. Join Online: You'll receive instructions on how to join the online meeting. All you need is an internet connection and a device.

4. Participate and Connect: Engage in meaningful discussions, connect with like-minded men, and experience the power of personal growth and support.

Men's groups are a powerful way to connect, grow, and find support in today's fast-paced world. The ManKind Project UK&I offers a unique opportunity to experience the benefits of these groups through our free, online Connection Groups. Whether you're seeking personal growth, authentic connections, or a sense of brotherhood, our Connection Groups can provide the support and camaraderie you're looking for. Join us, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and connection.

A (Gay) Man in a Circle of Men (A Gateway into the ManKind Project)

I was resistant to signing up for my first Mankind Project weekend back in 2017. “Man” was a problematical word for me. It carried associations of animosity and alienation. Not really knowing what I was in for, I focused on the “-kind” and hoped for the best. 

As a gay man I was used to being in the minority, if not the singularity. Of the discoveries I made on that first weekend with MKP, I learned that men, whatever their sexual orientation, were also capable of feeling isolated and secretly different, each in their own way.

The more time I spend engaged with the Mankind Project, the more I learn about the range of individuality of men, as well as the things we have in common: vulnerability, fear, desire, shame, strength, nobility… gradually that M word is losing its intimidating power over me. 

Within MKP we have a “Rainbow Circle” exclusively for GBTQ men. We meet monthly online and have the chance to check in and share our experiences, as part of our wider interactions with MKP as a whole.

Thanks to this, six years on, I have a very different relationship with the M word. I now understand there to be as many versions of it as there are men, myself included. That said, I also find there to be a common underlying experience of something “Masculine”. It’s multi-faceted, magnificent and badly needed in our world today.

This October (2023) we’re holding the first ‘Gateway’ weekend outside North America for GBTQ+ men. It’s a major milestone for MKP UK & Ireland, and a personal one for me. 

- Aiden H.

To register for our next Rainbow Circle CLICK HERE

For information about our GBTQ+ GateWay NWTA CLICK HERE

From Me to We: The Gift Economy at the Heart of The ManKind Project

"The service aspect of our work is not just an add-on or an optional extra. It's an integral part of what we do. We believe that true healing and transformation cannot happen in isolation; it requires connection, community, and a willingness to give back. Through service, we create a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond ourselves." - Ron Hering (co-founder of MKP)

The ManKind Project (MKP) is a global organisation dedicated to helping men grow, heal and find their purpose. Since our inception in 1985, service and giving have been core pillars of the MKP philosophy, and the concept of the "giveaway" has been central to our approach to personal growth and transformation.

The founders of MKP recognised that there were very few resources available to men struggling, growing or in need of community. They wanted to create a space where men could support each other, share their experiences, and learn new skills for personal growth and healing. In the early years, MKP primarily offered workshops and retreats, including our flagship programme, the New Warrior Training Adventure. This programme was designed to help men break through their limiting beliefs, face their fears, and discover their true potential. But even in those early days, service and giving were never far from their minds.

In the mid-1990s, MKP undertook an approach to service and giving, which became known as the "giveaway." The idea was simple: each man who participated in the New Warrior Training Adventure would be asked to make a contribution towards the weekend. This was a radical model that meant that men were actually paying to help serve other men and ‘pay forward’ the gift that they got from their training. 

The giveaway is a way for men to share something of themselves with the group, give back in a meaningful way, and connect with their own sense of purpose and contribution. Over time, the giveaway became a central part of the MKP community experience and remains so today. Our staff men on the weekend still pay to be there and our ‘social capital’ on each weekend often exceeds 25k.  

Service and giving are powerful tools for personal growth and transformation. When I give of myself, I connect with something larger than myself, and I make up that this is the same for other men.  I tap into a sense of purpose and contribution that is deeply fulfilling and meaningful. And when I give without expecting anything in return, I create a sense of abundance and generosity that can be contagious.

The giveaway is a perfect example of this. When men share something of themselves with the group, they create a sense of connection and community that is hard to replicate in any other way. They also learn to value their own unique gifts and contributions, and to see how those gifts can be used to make a positive impact on the world around them.

But the benefits of service and giving don't just accrue to the individual. They also have a ripple effect that can transform entire communities and even the world. When we give of ourselves, we create a sense of generosity and abundance that can inspire others to do the same. We create a culture of giving that values contribution over competition and generosity over selfishness.

At MKP, we believe that service and giving are essential components of personal growth and transformation. That's why we incorporate the giveaway into all of our programmes and events, and why we encourage all our members to find ways to give back to their communities. Whether it's through a service project, a donation, or simply a kind word, we know that giving is one of the most powerful ways to connect with our own sense of purpose and to make a positive impact on the world around us.

If you're interested in learning more about the ManKind Project and our approach to personal growth and transformation, we encourage you to explore our website or attend one of our events. We believe that every man has the potential to grow, heal, and find his purpose, and we're here to support him on that journey.

Laurence Johns, Development & Outreach Director of MKP UK&I