Like Joe is a story about a boy who faces various challenges while growing up, and is intended to spark conversation and provide adolescent boys with information and reflections on the choices they encounter. If you are interested in out-of-school sexuality education for young people (ages 10-16), Cordaid can assist you with materials.
Many boys grow up with pressure to be ‘strong’, ‘tough’, or ‘always in control’. These ideas often stem from cultural, media, or family traditions, and too frequently, they can prevent boys from expressing their emotions, asking for help, or caring for others. They have real consequences, from higher rates of self-harm and substance abuse among men to recurring cases of physical and verbal aggression against women and LGBTQ+ people.
Thankfully, these harmful norms are not the only way to be a man. To build a more equal and inclusive society for everyone, we need to promote positive expressions of manhood. Ones that encourage men and boys to be kind, respectful, emotionally aware, and supportive of others. Ones that help men and boys to build healthy relationships, respect everyone in all their diversity, and feel good about themselves.
Men and boys are not inherently either ‘toxic’ or ‘positive’; they are individuals who learn as they grow. This tool helps them explore their masculinity and make choices that lead to a better life for themselves and their communities.
Comic book and guidebook
Young men and boys themselves developed the storyline of Like Joe in the DRC, CAR, and Burundi. The boys preferred the format to be a cartoon instead of a booklet.
The guidebook contains instructions for 33 one-hour sessions, mixing storytelling, theatre, sports and games. They engage the boys, allowing them to experience, practice, and reflect on their learning through hands-on experiences.
During and after the sessions, the following is being facilitated and encouraged:
- Formation of positive peer groups on WhatsApp;
- doing fun ‘homework’ using one’s mobile phone;
- follow-up options in closed groups on Facebook;
- promotion of team sports for character development, self-esteem, and overall health.
The comic book and guidebook are available in French and English.