Promoting Positive Masculinities in Media

Theme: Positive Masculinities & Representation

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Summary

The Promoting Positive Masculinities in Media Community works to challenge harmful gender stereotypes and reimagine representations of men as allies in equality and agents of positive change. It recognises that toxic masculinities, rooted in dominance, emotional repression, and inequality, are often normalised by media narratives. Through collective learning, creative content, and dialogue, the Community seeks to redefine what “normal” manhood looks like in African media. 
Its roadmap integrates education, inclusive storytelling, and collaboration with male role models, writers, and content creators to inspire healthy depictions of masculinity. From journalism schools to film, fiction, and digital spaces, members advocate for balanced representation, mentorship opportunities, and community-driven awareness campaigns. By reframing masculinity through diverse African contexts, the Community helps foster empathy, respect, and non-violence across audiences. 

Resources

The Role of Fiction Writing in Promoting Positive Masculinities Presentation / Creative Guide

Note: This resource package is currently under review and will be updated as new materials are finalized.

A creative presentation highlighting how intentional male character building and diverse storytelling in fiction can redefine masculinity and promote emotional intelligence, respect, and equality.

Download

Language: EN | Version: 2025

Best-Practices Guide for Ethical Representation of Men in Media Toolkit / Case Study Compilation

Note: This resource package is currently under review and will be updated as new materials are finalized.

A practical resource featuring examples, media case studies, and strategies for promoting balanced portrayals of men as partners in equality across journalism, film, and digital platforms.

Link to be confirmed or Access under development

Language: EN, FR | Version: 2025

Languages available

EN, FR

Country / Region

Pan-African

Links

Last Updated

March 6, 2026

DR. YEMISI AKINBOBOLA

C.E.O & Co-founder, AWiM

Dr Yemisi Akinbobola is an award-winning journalist, academic, consultant and co-founder of African Women in Media (AWiM). AWiM’s vision is that one-day African women will have equal access to representation in media. Joint winner of the CNN African Journalist Award 2016 (Sports Reporting), Yemisi ran her news website IQ4News between 2010-14.
Yemisi holds a PhD in Media and Cultural Studies from Birmingham City University, where she is an Associate Professor of Women’s Rights and Media Development. She has published scholarly research on women’s rights, African feminism, and journalism and digital public spheres. She was Editorial Consultant for the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 commemorative book titled “She Stands for Peace: 20 Years, 20 Journeys”, and currently hosts the book’s podcast.
She speaks regularly on issues relating to gender and media. In 2021 she was recognized as one of 100 Most Influential African Women.