JCI Limerick is proud to host a powerful and timely event focused on Men’s Mental Health in Leadership, taking place on Saturday, 20 June 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a networking session.

This initiative emerged from discussions with JCI Ireland, JCI Galway, and JCI Senators involved in the JCI Ireland Women in Leadership programme. Together, we recognised the importance of creating a space where men in leadership roles can openly discuss mental health, resilience, and the pressures that come with responsibility.

Each speaker will share insights from their field, helping us understand how mental health challenges appear across different sectors — and what support, awareness, and leadership look like in each context.

The event will conclude with a moderated panel discussion and an open networking session to encourage connection, reflection, and community support.

Venue: 101 O'Connell St, Prior's-Land, Limerick, V94 PX2K

Date: Saturday, 20 June 2026

Time: 3:00pm – 5:00pm

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2:45pm – 3:00pm | Registration & Arrival

* Tea/Coffee on arrival

* Networking

* Information on local mental health supports

* Welcome from JCI Limerick volunteers

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3:00pm – 3:10pm | Welcome & Opening Remarks

Hosted by Denis Hardi, President, JCI Limerick

Denis will officially welcome attendees and set the tone for the afternoon, highlighting the importance of creating spaces where men can have open and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing and leadership.

Topics:

* Welcome to attendees, speakers and partners

* Introduction to JCI Limerick and its mission

* Why men’s mental health matters

* The role of leaders and communities in supporting wellbeing

* Overview of the afternoon programme

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3:10pm – 3:25pm | Keynote Speaker

“The Silent Pressure: Men, Mental Health & Modern Leadership”

Topics:

* Challenges facing men today

* Leadership and vulnerability

* Breaking stigma

* Building resilience and support systems

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3:25pm – 3:55pm | Interactive Team Challenge with LEGO®

Facilitated by Michelle Daly Hayes

“Building Better Together: A Team Resilience Challenge”

Participants will work in teams to complete a fast-paced LEGO® challenge designed to explore communication, collaboration, trust and resilience under pressure.

The activity will:

* Encourage teamwork and problem-solving

* Demonstrate the importance of communication and support

* Explore how people respond to challenges and uncertainty

* Highlight the value of connection and community

 

Facilitated Debrief:

Michelle will lead a discussion connecting the challenge to:

* Mental wellbeing in teams

* Psychological safety

* Leadership under pressure

* Building resilience through strong support networks

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3:55pm – 4:30pm | Panel Discussion

“Real Conversations: Leadership, Pressure & Wellbeing”

Panel featuring leaders from business, sport and community sectors.

Discussion topics:

* Managing stress and expectations

* Mental fitness versus mental illness

* Work-life balance

* Lessons learned from personal challenges

* Supporting others in the workplace and community

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4:30pm – 4:45pm | Audience Q&A

Moderated discussion with audience participation.

* Open questions from attendees

* Anonymous question cards

* Interactive discussion with panel members

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4:45pm – 4:55pm | Final Reflections & Call to Action

“One Thing Every Man Should Know About Mental Health”

Short reflections from speakers and panel members, followed by key takeaways and practical next steps.

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4:55pm – 5:00pm | Closing Remarks

Denis Hardi, President, JCI Limerick

* Thank speakers, attendees and partners

* Highlight local support services and resources

* Encourage continued conversations around mental health

* Outline upcoming JCI Limerick initiatives and events

* Group photograph

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Event Theme:

Strong Enough to Talk: Men’s Mental Health in Leadership

Event Objective:

To create a safe, engaging and practical forum where men can discuss mental health openly, learn from the experiences of others, strengthen connections, and leave with tools and insights that support both personal wellbeing and effective leadership.