ISS celebrates International Men's Day with special events |20 November 2023
The International School Seychelles (ISS) proudly marked International Men's Day this year with a series of engaging activities aimed at recognising and celebrating the contributions of the male members within the school community.
The event not only provided a platform to acknowledge the valuable role men play in society but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among students and staff.
To kick off the celebrations, ISS organised a delightful gesture by surprising the male staff with a sweet treat – a cookie extravaganza. The cookies served as a token of appreciation for the hard work and dedication demonstrated by the male school members throughout the year. The gesture aimed to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere within the school, fostering a sense of gratitude for the efforts of the male staff.
The highlight of the day was the International Men's Day conference, attended by all male secondary students at ISS. The conference provided a platform for open discussions on topics such as mental health, personal development, and the importance of positive male role models. It was a unique opportunity for the male students to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and gain insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The conference featured distinguished guest speakers who generously shared their time and expertise, making the event truly memorable. The male lineup included:
Luke Fonseka: Luke's journey transitions from a British Army Commando to a Captain in the Seychelles Defence Force, bringing discipline, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. As chairman of the Seychelles Rugby Union, he fosters growth and a thriving rugby community. Beyond his professional roles, Luke is a devoted father, exemplifying resilience and adaptability in balancing military service, sports leadership, and fatherhood. His multifaceted contributions reflect a commitment to shaping a positive and well-rounded community in Seychelles, showcasing the integration of military, sportsmanship, and family values in his life.
Rodney Ansah: Country Procurement Director for the Hilton Seychelles Cluster of hotels. A British ex-pat, Rodney has been happily married for 22 years to his Seychellois wife, Laurie-Mae. The proud parent of two ISS pupils, Ethan (14) and Savanna (10), Rodney and his family made Seychelles their home in 2019. Rooted in the hotels and hospitality sector, Rodney's career began in London before he seized the opportunity to relocate to Seychelles. Apart from corporate responsibilities, he's a dedicated Liverpool FC fan and avid golfer. In his leisure, Rodney immerses himself in movies and comedy shows, embodying a perfect balance of professional success and personal passions.
Yohan Liyanage: Yohan Liyanage, a seasoned Lawyer and Director of the Seychelles Law Commission, boasts a diverse professional background with significant roles in various legal jurisdictions. From serving as a Prosecutor in Sri Lanka to being a Magistrate and Chief Registrar in Fiji, Yohan's expertise spans across legal domains. He has chaired the Arbitration Court and served as a Judge of the High Court in Fiji, bringing a comprehensive perspective to the Seychelles legal landscape. Yohan is also a parent at ISS.
Alexander Durup: Alexander, a proud Seychellois, has deep roots in the islands, spending most of his life there. After studying at ISS and pursuing communications and media in Prague, he returned to Seychelles in 2016. Venturing into photography, he now heads his own agency specialising in digital media. Actively engaged in the community, Alexander is a member of Round Table Seychelles, contributing to various projects. Notably, he led the organisation of Regatta50, a charity fundraiser marking its return after a four-year hiatus. Alexander's commitment to both his business and community projects showcases his passion for making a positive impact in Seychelles.
Dr Ahwin Sakharia: A dedicated professional serving as the Consultant and Head of the Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery Unit at Victoria Hospital, under the Ministry of Health in Seychelles. Dr Sakharia brings his expertise and commitment to the forefront, contributing to the healthcare landscape and ensuring the well-being of the community. As a leader in Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr Sakharia plays a vital role in providing specialised medical care and advancing healthcare practices in Seychelles. Dr Sakharia is also a parent at ISS.
Frank Ally: Frank is Attorney General and an accomplished Attorney-At-Law with a diverse journey, starting as a supply teacher at Mont Fleuri secondary school. A graduate of the University of Mauritius, he earned an LLB (Hons) and obtained his Barrister's Certificate. Frank spent three years as a State Counsel before entering the private sector in 1999. Recognised for his capabilities, Frank became a Notary and established his law practice in 2006, demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit. His journey reflects a commitment to legal excellence, public service, and a successful private practice. Beyond law, Frank showcased versatility as a part-time newsreader on SBC Radio, highlighting his communication skills. Frank is also a parent at ISS.
ISS extends its heartfelt gratitude to these esteemed male speakers for graciously accepting the invitation and contributing to the success of the International Men's Day Conference.
The event not only celebrated the achievements of men within the school community but also emphasised the importance of fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue and support among students and staff.
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