Getting beyond 'toxic' masculinity - boys and young men changing the narrative

The recent landmark drama “Adolescence” from Netflix has sparked a much-needed discussions on boys’ mental health, masculinities, and radicalisation, highlighting long standing issues including the negative influences and pressures boys and young men face daily from their peers, the internet, and social media. Stereotypes about boys and young men often cast them as disinterested or disruptive, while societal pressures to conform to harmful notions of masculinity further isolate them. In fact, research shows that boys are less likely than girls to engage in social action, with only 51% of boys feeling they play a meaningful role in their communities, likely reinforced by negative gender-stereotypes.

“The global conversations sparked by ‘Adolescence’ underscore the urgency of our work. At GFC, we’ve been championing healthy masculinities since 2019, collaborating with community groups that make a real difference in boys’ daily lives. Our partners, deeply embedded in their communities, provide the vital connection and support that boys and young men desperately need. As ‘Adolescence’ poignantly illustrates, the solutions to these complex issues lie in fostering genuine community bonds and positive role models. We’re committed to tackling gendered stereotypes, creating space for boys and young men to speak up about their lives, reconnecting boys with strong, consistent mentors and facilitating real-in-person relationships that combat the isolation and loneliness many young men experience.“– Katherine Gilmour, Regional Director for Europe and Eurasia at GFC

What is Boys Beyond Bias?

GFC’s #BoysBeyondBias campaign challenges stereotypes about young men, showcasing their positive contributions to their communities, and demonstrating that with the right opportunities, boys can be powerful agents of change. Through storytelling and collaboration, we aim to inspire change and highlight the impactful roles boys and young men play in fostering community growth.

In partnership with the #iwill Fund, we support four grassroots organizations in Bradford, England, to create spaces for boys aged 10–14 to explore positive masculinities and engage in youth-led social action. The #BoysBeyondBias campaign features four short films, created in collaboration with the boys and community organizations in Bradford– coinciding with Bradford’s year as the UK City of Culture 2025 – offering a fresh perspective on young men’s roles in their communities.

By challenging public perceptions of boys as ‘lost causes’ or ‘vandals,’ we uncovered their active involvement in community engagement. Through focus groups and close collaboration with the boys, we co-created messaging, humor, and language that felt authentic. The resulting films use clever wordplay and unexpected twists to challenge unconscious biases and showcase their true contributions to their communities.

We invite you to watch the four films and contribute to rewriting the narrative by sharing with your family and friends.

• “More Tins” – West Bowling Youth Initiative: This playful short film turns assumptions on their head, showing young men collecting canned goods to create food parcels for families experiencing food insecurity.

• “Tagging” and “Joint” – Worth Valley Young Farmers Club: These films challenge stereotypes about rural boys, highlighting their dedication to sustainable agriculture and community outreach. From caring for livestock to leading campaigns for local produce, their efforts are nurturing communities through sustainable practices.

• “Another Round” – Tasif Khan Community Boxing Academy: This inspiring story captures young boxers building resilience and citizenship through mentorship and training, showcasing the transformative power of sport.

With this campaign, here’s how we are challenging the narrative around boys and young men:

• Addressing masculinity and mental health: The films demonstrate that community engagement is a powerful antidote to the isolation and loneliness exacerbated by increased screen time. By participating in local initiatives, boys develop purpose, build real-world relationships, and enhance their emotional wellbeing. This active involvement fosters resilience, empathy, and a strong sense of community connection.

• Empowering boys to lead: By centering the voices and ideas of boys, we create opportunities for them to redefine what masculinity means in their lives and communities.

• Highlighting positive role models: The campaign features young men as leaders and changemakers, inspiring others to see their potential.

• Combating negative stereotypes: Each story directly challenges the notion of boys as “lost causes” or “mischief-makers,” replacing these with narratives of care, contribution, and connection.

• Creating safe spaces: Community-based organizations provide safe environments where boys can explore their identities, build confidence, and connect with peers.

Our partnerships

The #BoysBeyondBias Campaign is made possible with funding from The National Lottery Community Fund and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) through the #iwill fund and People’s Postcode Lottery.

The continuation and growth of Global Fund for Children’s Healthy Masculinities initiative receives funds through Postcode Education Trust thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and we are deeply grateful to them for supporting this critical work that is so often overlooked and chronically underfunded.

Why this campaign matters now

At a time when debates about masculinity and gender roles dominate public discourse, #BoysBeyondBias offers a timely, hopeful perspective. By empowering young men to lead and contribute, this campaign not only challenges stereotypes but also strengthens communities.

Join Us! Explore the films, hear the stories, and be part of the movement to celebrate boys beyond bias. Together, we can inspire a generation of young men to thrive and create positive change.