This archive report was first published on 18 October 2019.
Reimagining Masculinity in the Age of Feminism ¶
As the world grapples with the complexities of feminism, Dr. Laila Macharia, a trailblazing businesswoman and mother, believes it's time to rethink the traditional roles of men.
With a storied career spanning multiple continents, Dr. Macharia has witnessed firsthand the shifting dynamics of power and identity. Born in Kenya, raised in Namibia and Somalia, and educated in the United States, she has navigated diverse cultures and economies.
As the CEO and co-founder of Africa Digital Media Group, Dr. Macharia is committed to empowering the next generation of digital professionals and creative entrepreneurs. Her passion for social impact is evident in her work, which seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Dr. Macharia's thoughts on masculinity are shaped by her experiences as a mother and a feminist. She believes that traditional notions of masculinity have been limiting and restrictive, trapping men in narrow roles that stifle their potential. 'We need men to be leaders in other ways; artists, techs... Because women and men are now negotiating in the same marketplace, it calls for all of us to then get a role that is liberating and much more authentic.'
As a mother, Dr. Macharia is acutely aware of the importance of raising her son to be a confident and compassionate individual. She emphasizes the need for boys to be given the space to explore their creativity and interests, free from the constraints of traditional masculinity. 'Letting him flourish and manifest into really who he is without overly prescribing what it has to look like.'
Dr. Macharia's reflections on her own life and legacy are a poignant reminder of the importance of living authentically and making a meaningful impact. As she looks to the future, she is driven by a desire to create a more just and equitable world, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
