This community-centred event aims to create a safe and engaging space for men to talk openly about health challenges, learn about early detection and take proactive steps toward better wellbeing, says the foundation.

Men's health is often overlooked, both in policy and in conversation. Many men delay medical care until it's too late, due to stigma, fear, or lack of support. The 2025 Global Men's Health Month theme, "Closing the Empathy Gap", calls for compassion, understanding and active engagement in men's wellbeing. In South Africa, the focus theme, "Check In, Not Out", urges men to take charge of their health through early detection and regular check-ups, says the foundation.

Against this backdrop, Dr Randall Ortel, a Family Physician with over 15 years of experience serving the Cape Flats, has made it his mission to change the narrative, says the foundation.

"Too many of our brothers, fathers and sons are lost to preventable illnesses. We want to shift that reality; one conversation, one check-up, one community at a time," says Dr Randall Ortel, Founder of the Dr Randall Ortel Foundation.

The Open Day features interactive, talk-style sessions led by Dr Ortel, covering topics that deeply affect men's lives, such as diabetes, hypertension, mental health, TB, HIV awareness and common cancers. The event aims to blend medical insight with humour and heart, creating an atmosphere of openness and trust, says the foundation.

Beyond medical education, the event highlights the broader mission of the Dr Randall Ortel Foundation, which is dedicated to empowering, uplifting and transforming communities through education, mentorship and social healing, adds the foundation.

Funds raised through pledges supports Early Childhood Development (ECD) initiatives in Manenberg, reinforcing the Foundation's belief that healthy communities start with healthy families, adds the foundation.

The event also marks the official launch of Friends of the Dr Randall Ortel Foundation, a membership platform for individuals and organisations who wish to support the Foundation's mission. Members receive exclusive invitations to webinars, discounted access to events and a monthly newsletter featuring community impact stories and wellness insights, adds the foundation.

"Men's health is not just a medical issue, it's a human issue. When a man takes care of his health, he's also taking care of his family, his relationships and his future. The Men's Health Club is our way of saying: You matter. Your health matters. Let's stand together to build stronger, healthier communities," says Dr Ortel.

Following the Mitchell's Plain event, the Foundation is set to host a second Men's Health Club Open Day in Manenberg on Saturday, 6 December, aiming to continue its mission to advance holistic health, mental well-being and social healing across communities, concludes the foundation.

For more information, visit www.drrandallortelfoundation.co.za. You can also follow Dr Randall Ortel Foundation on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or on TikTok.

*Image courtesy of contributor