The GEMMS (Gender Equality Men's Movement of Singapore)

AWARE wants Singaporeans to know that gender equality is not just for women! Men and women both benefit from an enhanced understanding of what it means to be a man or a woman in the 21st century. With society rapidly changing and gender roles being redefined, men too need an outlet to discuss their thoughts and share their experiences. In January 2008, AWARE sponsored Singapore’s first Men’s Gender Awareness Group!

Bert Bjarland, spokesperson of Singapore’s 2007 White Ribbon Campaign, started the GEMMS in January 2008. Bjarland had been conducting similar groups for over twenty years and said the most important characteristics of group members are “an open mind and a genuine interest and willingness to discuss, investigate, and work with one's masculinity.” He left Singapore in July 2008 for his homeland.

Ram Ramchandani is now in charge of the GEMMS.

The objectives of the GEMMS will include, but are not limited to:
- sharing experiences and feelings about being men;
- raising awareness about the differences between sex and gender;
- analyzing gender related strengths, weaknesses, expectations, and fears;
- developing and improving participants' experiences of leading a man's life, especially when sharing it with a strong and independent partner.

The aim of the GEMMS is to encourage men to become part of the dialogue on issues of gender equality and understanding.

To enroll in the GEMMS or for more information, please contact Daniel Poh at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it .