Strong Enough to Talk: Reflections on the JCI Limerick Men’s Mental Health in Leadership Event
Today in the 101 Boardroom, JCI Limerick hosted an event that reminded all of us why conversations about men’s mental health matter — and why leadership is not just about responsibility, but about humanity, vulnerability, and connection. As a newly re‑established chapter, this was one of our first major events, and I could not be prouder of the atmosphere created in the room: open, honest, supportive, and deeply human.
A Collaborative Effort Across JCI Ireland
This event was made possible through the support of the wider JCI community. A sincere thank‑you to JCI Ireland and JCI Galway for sending representatives to join us today. Your presence meant a great deal, especially as this event was created in collaboration with the JCI Ireland Women in Leadership project — a reminder that leadership development is strongest when we work together across chapters. A special thank‑you goes to Michelle Daly Hayes, whose support, guidance, and energy were instrumental in bringing this event to life. Michelle also prepared and shared an article about our event with several media outlets, helping amplify the message far beyond the room.
We are also grateful to Live95 & Limerick Leader for promoting the event and helping us reach more people across Limerick.
Limerick Leader article: ‘One brick at a time": JCI Limerick launch men's mental health event
Stories That Stay With Us
One of the most powerful parts of the afternoon came from our guest speaker, James Cussen, who shared his personal journey with remarkable honesty.
James spoke about his early struggles with depression and dark thoughts, and how reading became a form of escape — and ultimately, a path to self‑discovery. What stood out most was his reflection that what he needed back then wasn’t a miracle solution, but simply someone to talk to. Because that space didn’t exist for him, he learned to grow through self‑reflection, eventually studying philosophy and later entering the AI field through research.
Today, as a master’s student, James shared how he continues to face challenges, but with a stronger sense of integrity and a clearer understanding of self‑care. James — thank you for your courage, your honesty, and your willingness to share your story with us.
A Surprise Guest With an Important Message
We were also joined by Cillian Keane, Development Officer for Mental Health Ireland in the Mid‑West. Cillian introduced the organisation’s work and highlighted his PhD research on mental health in the construction sector — a field with one of the highest suicide rates among men.
His message was clear: this is an area that urgently needs more research, more awareness, and more open conversation. We wish him every success in his important work.
Learning Through Play: The Blocks Challenge
The second half of the event brought everyone together for a hands‑on workshop facilitated by Michelle Daly Hayes.
Three groups took on two blocks challenges:
- Challenge 1: Build something together without speaking. The result? Confusion, frustration, and a powerful reminder of how essential communication is in any team or leadership setting.
- Challenge 2: Build the tallest tower with communication allowed. Suddenly, teamwork became easier, more coordinated, and more purposeful — a simple but effective demonstration of how clarity and collaboration transform outcomes.
The debrief connected these activities to real‑world leadership: psychological safety, resilience, communication, and the importance of having people around you who listen and support.
Closing Reflections From JCI Galway & JCI Ireland
We wrapped up with a short update from JCI Galway, who shared their upcoming activities and challenges — a great reminder of the strength of the JCI network.
Finally, JCI Ireland President Dean Swift closed the event with warm remarks, thanking JCI Limerick for organising this session on short notice and recognising the importance of marking Men’s Mental Health Month with meaningful action.
A Step Forward for JCI Limerick
Today was more than an event — it was a statement of intent. JCI Limerick is here to build community, to create spaces for honest conversation, and to support the leaders of today and tomorrow. We are grateful to everyone who attended, contributed, shared, listened, and supported. This is only the beginning, and we look forward to building many more events, projects, and partnerships with the people of Limerick.
