The past week saw Castle Lite creating a space for men to come together and share their concerns, anxieties and underlying issues that have impacted their mental wellbeing as a result of this unprecedented year.

The two-day, mindset matters pop-up bar hosted in Rosebank (JHB), as well as via livestream for men to join in on the conversation was dubbed The Lite Bar.

Day 1 of the Lite Bar pop up saw the official bartender of the night, Mpho Popps host a panel which featured Riky Rick, DJ Sbu, Dr Nokukhanya Khanyile, and John Vlismas.

The panelists discussed a wide range of issues that face South African men such as fatherhood, breaking the stigma around mental health, toxic masculinity, fame and the pressures of social media, as well the importance of therapy. The audience got a chance to join in the conversation and shared their own experience on mental health. 

The conversations continued on day two kicking off with a flurry of activity as men were treated to exclusive haircuts from Tshepo the Barber. Funny man Mpho Popps, returned once again as the host and bartender, and was joined by guests, Pearl Thusi, Somizi Mhlongo, David Scott of The Kiffness, and Proverb wearing their hearts on their sleeves, and sharing their thoughts on some intense topics around the psychological impact of 2020.

Guests opened up about mental health, fear of failure among men, coming out of the closet, attempted suicide, the need to emulate one’s parents, dangers of aspiring/adhering to social media standards and learning how to express not being okay, there was an overall positive sentiment from the audience which was regarded as a resounding success by attendees.

It also became apparent to Castle Lite, through research and partnership with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), that men are not only often overlooked when issues of mental health are discussed, but there is still a massive stigma attached to men showing any kind of emotional distress, particularly depression and anxiety.

The brand therefore created The Lite Bar to address these issues as well as the lack of understanding and support structures for men. The idea was premised on the notion that men seem to be more comfortable opening up and expressing their challenges either to their barber or to their bartenders, in a space seemingly free of judgement.

Watch the live streamed talks below;

World's First Mindset Matters Pop-up Bar Day 1

World's First Mindset Matters Pop-up Bar Day 2