In Vanuatu, a new wave of change is emerging as men and boys take the lead in redefining traditional gender roles. Through CARE Vanuatu’s Vois Blo Mi project, young boys are gaining the tools and confidence to challenge inequality, fostering more supportive and inclusive communities.

In Vanuatu, where traditional gender roles are deeply rooted, a quiet transformation is unfolding. Through CARE Vanuatu’s Vois Blo Mi (VBM) project, supported by Pacific Women Lead (PWL) at SPC’s Pacific Girl programme, men and boys are actively challenging gender norms. Six male community facilitators, including Enock Job, are leading conversations on gender equality, shifting perspectives among adolescent boys aged 12 to 18.

For Enock, this journey began at home. Seeing his wife’s work with CARE Vanuatu opened his eyes to gender inequalities and inspired him to step up. Now, through VBM’s in-school programme, he and his team create safe spaces where young boys reflect on gender biases and their impact on women and girls.

“[The boys] came to realise there was a gender bias and how it influenced views and actions over the past years, and they also understand the gender concepts.” – Enock Job, VBM Community Facilitator

A turning point came during a Participatory Action Research dialogue in Tanna, where adolescent boys engaged with key messages on gender roles, menstruation taboos, and shared responsibilities at home. Their reflections show a powerful shift.

“We never supported our female peers in school. Now, we understand the importance of addressing menstrual hygiene so girls can feel comfortable and enjoy their classes.” – Adolescent boy participant

For many of the boys, the experience was an awakening, a realisation that everyday behaviours and gender expectations had consequences for their female peers which was shared by another adolescent boy participant.

“I used to leave all the housework to my sister while I went out with friends, not realizing she had the same rights. I now help with chores, so she also has free time to play.” – Adolescent boy participant

Through CARE Vanuatu’s Vois Blo Mi project, young boys are gaining the tools and confidence to challenge inequality, fostering more supportive and inclusive communities. Image: CARE Vanuatu.

These reflections signal a deeper shift in gender and social norms one that is not enforced but embraced by the boys themselves. Through intentional engagement, education, and open discussions, men and boys in Vanuatu are no longer just allies in gender equality but are active participants in the change further proving that when men and boys understand the impacts of gender inequality, they don’t just acknowledge the problem, they become part of the solution.