Independent Media says that its '#MYPROMISE' initiative is aimed at encouraging men to speak up and be accountable for their actions. According to the company, men are encouraged to take responsibility not only for their own actions but for the actions of the men around them.

The initiative is also meant to encourage men to commit to setting the right example for themselves and for other men — and to those who will follow in their footsteps. The simple premise of the campaign strives to demonstrate that it doesn't take a real man to read an advert, but that it will take a real man to read this particular advert aloud.

Independent Media is requesting men to record this promise and send it out into the world and to actively encourage other men to follow suit. "The time for the passive is past, it is action that is required," says the team at Independant Media. The company says that it hopes that this action will be the catalyst for 'real systemic change beyond just awareness'.

Dr Iqbal Survé, executive chairman of Independent Media, concludes, "Independent Media has championed several social change initiatives on its print and online platforms over the years, which include '#RacismStopsWithMe', '#DontLookAway' and '#DignityProject'. '#MyPromise' reflects our continued commitment to bringing about social change in our country and I encourage men and women to share this as far and wide as possible."

Independent Media is asking men to share their promise on social media and to help spread the message and put their words into action. Individuals are encouraged to go to IOL to read online and share '#MYPROMISE':

"I, (your full name), speak out loud as I promise to never be silent while you suffer.
To speak up, instead of speaking down.
To condemn, instead of condone.
To object, instead of objectify.
I know I will never understand your deepest fears, because only a woman could,
but I promise to do everything I can to make our country a better place for you.
A place where you never have to fear walking home alone.
Where you never have to worry about what men will think about the clothes you're wearing.
Where you never have to worry about being raped and killed.
Where women never have to fear strangers or family, just because they're men.
Where men stop protecting other men, just because they're men.
I promise to never mute offensive chat groups and inner circles,
but rather unmute myself and speak out.
I promise to stand up and be counted.
To be accountable.
I promise to be more than a man,
because being a brother, father, son or uncle is not enough.
I promise to make sure your voice will always be heard."

The '#MYPROMISE' campaign has been launched across all of Independent Media's platforms. 

For more information, visit www.independentmedia.co.za.