Old Mutual Launches “Barbershop Network” To Promote The Wellbeing Of Male Employees

In a bid to foster mental health and holistic wellbeing among its male employees, the Old Mutual East Africa has today unveiled the Barbershop Network—an initiative aimed at providing a safe space and forum for personal and professional growth.

The Barbershop Network is an empowering platform for male workers to engage in open, supportive discussions around critical topics such as work-life balance, career development, family life, and mental health. By encouraging meaningful dialogue on these often-overlooked aspects of life, the initiative aims to strengthen camaraderie, mutual support, and resilience within the organisation and among its workers, fondly referred to as Mutualites.

Speaking at the launch event in Nairobi, the Group CEO at the Old Mutual Group, Mr. Arthur Oginga, emphasised the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all employees.

“Wellness and personal growth are at the heart of Old Mutual’s values. The Barbershop Network represents our long-term commitment to supporting our male Mutualites, ensuring they have the tools and environments they need to thrive both personally and professionally,” he said.

The Barbershop Network reflects Old Mutual’s vision of fostering a workplace culture that prioritises mental health and wellbeing. As it evolves, the network will become an integral part of the company’s broader wellness offerings, growing to address the diverse needs of its male workforce.

The Barbershop Network complements the work of Old Mutual Women’s Network East Africa (OWN EA), which was established in 2016 as a networking forum for women across the Old Mutual Group to share, connect and develop each other.

In its eight years of existence, OWN EA has demonstrated the organization’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It is also the premier facilitator of the company’s International Women’s Day activities and various themed engagements across the year.

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