Breaking the Silence is an initiative by African Professionals of Australia (APA) designed to address mental-health stigma among men of African heritage living and working in Sydney. In many African communities, mental health remains a “taboo subject” often seen as a weakness or something to be hidden. As a result, too many men suffer in silence, especially the working demographic aged 25-45 years old.

Research indicates that young African Australians face a dramatically higher risk of serious mental-health issues: an article published by University of Melbourne pointed out that “African Australian migrants are at ten times higher risk of experiencing mental health issues compared to the general population” (University of Melbourne, 2023). Additional research shows African migrant men under-utilise formal mental-health services due to stigma, cultural beliefs, and structural barriers (Flinders University, 2021).

The event aims to create a safe and culturally sensitive space where men from diverse African backgrounds living and working in Sydney can come together, open up about mental health, and explore real solutions. The event will invite partners from NSW Health and other multicultural communities to build connections and link the participants to resources they can access at any time.

By fostering conversation, sharing resources and building connection, we aim to normalise discussions around mental wellbeing and empower men from CALD backgrounds to seek support when they need it.

Event Overview
Date: Second week of March 2026
Venue: Sydney CBD
Time: 6pm-8pm
Format: The event will be facilitated by Dr Xavier Mulenga, a qualified mental-health expert, and a panel of community leaders with lived and professional experience.
Target Audience: Open to all multicultural communities and targeting men from an African heritage living and working in Sydney
Expected Guests: 40-50