I am a proud mom of a 19-year-old young man. While he and I share a strong bond and know how lucky I am to have a fairly 'easy teen,' there have obviously been some challenges too. Much like my parents were baffled by my generation, Gen Z kids often leave their parents scratching their heads. We can't quite relate to their excessive screen time, messy bedrooms, procrastination, lack of communication, resistance to household rules, constant need for instant gratification, and overreliance on technology. But, just like we turned out okay, even though our parents sometimes doubted we'd cope in the real world, so too will our kids.

One of Gen Z's most positive and recognisable traits is their aversion to stereotypes. They are inclusive and have an intense sense of justice. They challenge gender roles, reject defining people by race or sexual orientation, and preach tolerance. And all parents should encourage their teens to embrace their individuality in a way that builds and supports them.

This brings me back to my son. While his social circle is made up of an eclectic mix of individuals, he sees himself as a strong male whose Gen Z approach is to break the toxic masculinity mold but still maintain a more traditional way of doing things.

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So as a single mom, how can I support his path? The male role models from my youth are probably the exact opposite of what I hope for him and how he sees himself.

Teaching your Gen Z child to be an adult involves fostering a sense of identity that doesn't rely on outdated stereotypes. It's about encouraging self-discovery and inspiring them to define themselves in a way that resonates with their worldview and values.

One of the most effective ways to do this is by providing them with strong role models and mentors. Men who embody the values of respect, responsibility, and emotional intelligence can significantly impact your child's understanding of what it means to be a man.

Gone are the days of teaching them to be 'tough' or hide their emotions. It's about being true to themselves, showing respect to others, taking responsibility for their actions, and standing up for what they believe in. It's about making a positive contribution to the world and treating everyone, regardless of gender, race, or background, with kindness and respect.

But how?

Raising a Gen Z boy can sometimes feel like putting together a puzzle with constantly changing pieces. And as much as he benefits from our close, open relationship, I definitely need some support in that department.

When it comes to helping our boys navigate the ups and downs of growing up, having a mentor can be a game-changer. It's like having a guiding light, someone who has been there before and can offer valuable advice and support. I was so lucky to find someone who could do just that.

I recently met Angus Lowe – a dedicated teacher, traveller, outdoorsman, and thought leader.

Angus believes that positive mentors play a crucial role in shaping our children's sense of right and wrong, helping them deal with their feelings, make friends, and set meaningful goals. They create a safe space where adolescents can be themselves, explore their identities, and figure out who they want to become. Angus has developed a series of programs for teen boys to do just this.

What I find particularly exciting about these programs is their focus on learning through adventure. It's not about sitting in a classroom but instead getting out there, experiencing nature, and learning essential life skills. Spending a few weeks in the bush, the kids face challenging situations that teach them resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving. These experiences push them out of their comfort zones and boost their self-confidence.

But it's not just about the great outdoors. Emotional intelligence is also a top priority for Angus. Understanding and managing emotions is crucial for our children's well-being and success in today's fast-paced digital world. These programs teach them how to handle stress, manage anxiety, and navigate the pressures they face in their daily lives. By developing empathy, emotional control, and a positive mindset, they become better equipped to handle the rollercoaster ride of adolescence and beyond.

These programs also foster a strong bond between parents and their sons, offering the tools and skills necessary to thrive and become well-rounded adults.

So, if you're a parent like me looking for a supportive and engaging program to help your teenage son navigate these crucial years, I highly recommend exploring what the Angus Lowe Programs offer. You won't be disappointed. You can find out more by visiting his website at https://www.anguslowe.co.za/ or email him at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

To help make his programme more accessible to all, he offers payment plans, partial scholarships, and guidance on fundraising.