“Strength is coping with daily messes and still being okay at the end of it.”
That’s what one of our colleagues told us when we asked what it means to be strong. And in that simple, raw statement lies the story of so many men in our workplace, and in industries like ours across the world.
At OML Africa Logistics, the men who keep our operations moving forward do so with quiet resilience. Beneath the hard hats and PPE, behind the wheels and at the desks, are human beings who carry far more than the weight of cargo or paperwork. They shoulder invisible burdens, often silently.
When we took the time to really listen, they opened up. They spoke about the pressure that comes with meeting deadlines and balancing countless tasks, often in understaffed teams. The frustration of waiting for essential resources or trying to acquire new PPE in time. The physical fatigue that sets in after long hours of demanding work. The mental exhaustion that follows when responsibilities pile up and there’s no room to catch your breath. The isolation of being far from family, or working in places that feel far from home. And always, the unspoken expectation to take it all in stride, no cracks, no complaints, no visible strain.
One man told us, “We humor ourselves to stay sane. We find refuge in music. We keep moving, because that’s what we’re supposed to do.” Another said, “Being strong means keeping your cool. Not letting your feelings spill over. Staying busy enough so the stress stays buried.”
But under that quiet strength lies something more: a longing for real connection, for spaces where vulnerability isn’t met with judgment, but with understanding.
And that longing reflects a truth bigger than any one company. The World Health Organization tells us that men account for 77% of global suicide deaths, yet are far less likely than women to seek help. In sub-Saharan Africa, up to 85% of people with mental health conditions receive no treatment at all. The International Labour Organization estimates that mental health struggles cost the global economy $1 trillion a year in lost productivity. And in male-dominated industries like ours, stress and burnout often go unspoken, even as they take their toll.
Our colleagues reminded us of what we’re doing right. They see and appreciate the positive work culture, the wellness outings, the supportive colleagues, and the space to rest when needed. But they also pointed to where we can grow, not through dramatic change, but through simple, human steps. Male-centered group conversations. Morale-boosting team activities. Clearer communication about mental health support. Stronger connections between leadership and the men who keep the work going. Small gestures, like a gym that’s equipped for real use, or a place to play a game and reset during the day.
And they offered wisdom for those following in their footsteps: “Embrace challenges as lessons.” “Be open-minded and patient, success is a process.” “Build a strong support system. Stay connected. And when things get tough, talk. It really does get better.”
Real strength, they’ve shown us, isn’t about hiding the hard parts. It’s about kindness, courage, and connection. It’s about creating workplaces where men can be seen for who they are, not just what they deliver.
This Men’s Mental Health Month, we’re not just reflecting, we’re listening, learning, and committing to do better. And we invite our peers in logistics, mining, energy: What are you doing to support your men? What will you do to break the silence? Because when we see and honor the real strength in our men, we all move forward, together.