Our workshop caused attendees to reflect on the cultural forces shaping young people’s understanding of identity, relationships and respect.
Last week, parents and caregivers gathered in the Bishop Barry Centre Auditorium for our highly anticipated parent workshop, Disrupting the Manosphere, facilitated by our partners from Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman. The event was exceptionally well attended, reflecting the strong interest across our community in understanding the challenges young people face in an increasingly complex digital world.
The workshop explored the growing influence of the ‘manosphere’ – a network of online communities, influencers and content that often promotes narrow and sometimes harmful views of masculinity, relationships and gender.
The evening was opened by Mrs Bronwyn Wake, Psychologist and Head of Character and Wellbeing. She set the tone by giving attendees an introduction to the meaning of ‘manosphere’.
“At its core, the manosphere online influencers offer a narrow and limited version of manhood.”
“At its core, the manosphere online influencers offer a narrow and limited version of manhood. One that discourages emotional expression, measures the value of a person by their power and wealth, frames equality as a threat and places blame instead of fostering understanding,” she said.
“These narratives can powerfully shape behaviours, relationships and the world young people are growing up in. Disrupting this narrative starts with offering something better – a more hopeful, richer, deeper vision for masculinity and for relationships between young men and women built on respect, empathy and equality.”
Mrs Wake then handed over to Alex and Martin, from Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman. Together they guided attendees through a balanced and thought-provoking evening of presentations and group work.
Rather than focusing solely on risks, the session encouraged parents to consider the broader cultural forces influencing both young men and young women today. Through engaging discussion and practical examples, attendees were invited to reflect on how they can offer young people a richer, deeper vision of relationships and identity.
The facilitators drew on current research and their extensive experience working with schools and communities across Australia to unpack the rise of gender-based stereotypes and online influences.
“Participants explored topics including healthy masculinities, empathy and connection, behaviour change, and the importance of respectful relationships.”
“Participants explored topics including healthy masculinities, empathy and connection, behaviour change, and the importance of respectful relationships. These themes are important for parents and relevant to the discussion on the everyday experiences of their own children,” said Mr Brad Swibel, Deputy Head of School (Secondary).
A key message throughout the evening was the importance of maintaining strong, trusting relationships with young people. Parents were encouraged to remain curious, engaged and open to conversation, creating spaces where children feel safe to discuss what they encounter online. Rather than responding with judgement or lectures, the presenters emphasised the value of listening, asking thoughtful questions and helping young people develop critical thinking skills.
The workshop also highlighted practical strategies families can implement at home, including setting healthy boundaries around device use, encouraging positive role models and modelling respectful communication and relationships in everyday life. These simple but powerful actions can help equip young people to navigate online spaces with confidence, resilience and discernment.
The evening generated meaningful discussion among attendees and provided valuable insights into a topic that is both culturally relevant and increasingly important for schools and families alike. As a community committed to supporting young people to become hope-filled individuals who positively shape the world around them, the workshop reinforced the vital role that parents, educators and mentors play in guiding the next generation.
We extend our sincere thanks to the team from Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman for delivering such an engaging and thought-provoking session. Their expertise, warmth and practical approach left attendees with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing young people today, as well as renewed confidence in their ability to support meaningful and positive change.
Further information for parents will be included in our upcoming school newsletters.
