Men, especially fathers, teachers, and other male role models, have an important role in inspiring children to read. Seeing men read, discuss books, and value literacy can have an important impact on the way children view reading for enjoyment. Encouraging children to see men as readers, whether through reading aloud, engaging in book clubs, or simply being seen reading, may benefit their literacy development and overall well-being.

The Nal'ibali-VW Literacy Project's Nal'ibali Literacy Men's Imbizo recently returned to the VW Pavilion in Kariega, Eastern Cape. The event, which aimed to inspire males to become reading role models for children, was attended by men from the community of Kariega as well as Nal'ibali-VW Literacy Project partners LoveLife and Ekhaya Skills Centre. Attendees learnt how to read aloud and tell stories to youngsters, as well as the value of play-based learning. They were also given children's storybooks and Nal'ibali reading materials in IsiXhosa and English.

"This Men's Literacy Imbizo taught us how to read to our children as father figures at home. Nal'ibali is assisting us in redefining fathers' roles as more than only providing for and defending their families, " said Siya Jonas, Director of Ekhaya Skills Centre.

Nal'ibali's Men's Literacy Imbizo, founded in May 2022, is the idea of like-minded men from KwaNobuhle community in Kariega, Eastern Cape. The Men's Imbizo arose from the #RealMenRead and #GetCaughtReading initiatives, demonstrating the power of campaigns to influence social behaviour. The Nal'ibali Men's Literacy Imbizo seeks to upskill men in the literacy space while also establishing a network of men interested in fostering a culture of reading for pleasure in their communities. This forum provides an environment for men to discuss challenges affecting their reading roles while offering advice on how to progress as literacy activists. Nal'ibali supports Men's Literacy Imbizo members through literacy instruction, activities,  providing reading materials, and the creation of new communication channels.

"The Nal'ibali Men's Imbizo was a huge success thanks to active participation and new connections. Men discussing how they help their children acquire literacy skills through reading aloud and sharing stories struck an emotional connection with me. The program improves our children's academic performance, which will help our country thrive in the future," stated Madoda Ndlakuse, Project Lead at the Nal'ibali-VW Literacy Project.