When we share our stories, we open doors to empathy and understanding, replacing silence with strength. Jane Linley-Thomas is doing just that—creating a safe space for young men to voice their struggles, to know they’re not alone, and to realise that their feelings are valid.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (30 October 2024) – As the layers of stigma around mental health begin to peel away, stories like Jane Linley-Thomas’ are a breath of fresh air. They remind us that by sharing our experiences, we foster compassion and understanding instead of judgement and fear.
When we open up, we create space for others to feel seen, forming connections that lift us all. This is especially crucial for young men, who are so often told to “toughen up” rather than talk about their struggles.
Linley-Thomas, a former East Coast Radio (ECR) presenter known for her infectious energy and deep empathy, is taking this mission to heart. Since stepping away from her radio role last year after nearly two decades, she’s been focused on building genuine human connections and fostering understanding.
“My work is always centred around building and empowering community,” she says.
Today, her focus has expanded from just the airwaves to schools, workplaces, and even development projects like Durban’s Westown precinct, where she’s creating human-centric content that speaks to people’s sense of belonging.
But Linley-Thomas’s latest initiative is a powerful, personal endeavour: she’s spearheading a campaign to break the stigma surrounding mental health—specifically among young men. Inspired by the legacy of her father and her sons, both soon to join Durban High School (DHS), she’s crafted a campaign to support young men from Grades 8 to 12 in acknowledging and sharing their emotions openly.
Her goal? To normalise big feelings and to let young men know that they are not alone.
The campaign, held at DHS, goes beyond just words. It’s a collection of thoughtful installations, workshops, and a photo series called “As You Are,” which captures students, teachers, and old scholars in moments of honest vulnerability.
These installations and discussions create a safe environment where young men can express their feelings without fear of judgement. They are encouraged to share experiences that, too often, are left unspoken. And with psychologist Paul Bushell and artist Jonathan Mazoue by her side, Jane has assembled a team driven by a shared vision to show these boys that it’s okay to feel and to seek support when needed.
“I think the more we are able to share stories, the more we operate from a place of compassion and understanding rather than judgement and fear,” Linley-Thomas explains.
“If this campaign leaves just one boy feeling less alone, less isolated, and a little bit more understood, then I’m happy. My goal is to normalise big feelings and to encourage boys to seek help if they are struggling.”
The timing of the campaign launch couldn’t be more fitting. Set to kick off on the 4th of November, it will align with Movember—a month-long global movement raising awareness for men’s health issues. As young men face the pressures of exams, this campaign offers them a lifeline during what can be an incredibly stressful time.
“It’s usually such a stressful time as pupils go into writing exams,” Linley-Thomas shares, “and it can be a very triggering and anxious period. That’s why we’ve chosen this timing, to provide crucial support for young men navigating these experiences.”
Ultimately, her message is clear: You are not alone. Your feelings are valid. And there is help available.
by 