International Men’s Day (IMD) is on 19th November every year and is marked across the UK and the world. The objectives – or Six Pillars as they are known – of International Men’s Day are:
- To promote positive male role models; not just movie stars and sports men but everyday, working-class men who are living decent, honest lives.
- To celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, childcare and the environment.
- To focus on men’s health and well-being including social, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
- To highlight discrimination against men in areas of social services, social attitudes and expectations and law.
- To improve gender relations and promote gender equality.
- To create a safer, better world, where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential.
Every year, International Men’s Day in the UK is marked by more and more women, men and organisations across the country. There were 200 organisations involved in 2018, 2019 and 2020’s events. This rose to 400 organisations in 2021 and 800 in 2023. This year it is expected to top 1,100 – needless to say it’s growing exponentially. Last year there were over 100,000 tweets on IMD and it was the hottest trend for hours.
As well as the aforementioned Six Pillars there is a secondary theme for each annual IMD suggested by world co-ordinators of the day, such as ‘Peace’ in 2002, ‘Men’s Health’ in 2003 and ‘Healing and Forgiveness’ in 2007.
The theme for 2024 is ‘Positive Male Role Models’ and we thought we would embrace the theme and catch up with 10 Inspiring Surrey Men for IMD to bring you this feature.
IAN MCCULLOCH
FOUNDER, SILENT POOL GIN
Surrey-born Silent Pool Gin Founder, Ian McCulloch, built an illustrious career in TV, in particular at ITV where he spent 25 years bringing the brand to huge commercial success. In 2013, after he left the channel, he decided to start his own business and after seeing a gap in the market for new gins, he started the Silent Pool Gin brand. And the rest is history! Silent Pool is one of the most sought after, successful gin brands in the world. Visitors can visit Silent Pool in Albury and see the gin being made, taking in the aromatic smells that waft in from the distilling process. This year the brand celebrate their 10 Year Anniversary and are introducing a limited-edition Silent Pool Gin. Be sure to check it out.
With a background in TV – what made you come up with the idea of opening a distillery?
I came out of ITV and wanted to do something that was local, that was hearts driven – not heads driven. I didn’t want to make nuts and bolts or something practical, I wanted to make something you engage with your heart like you do with drama on TV. Gin is very versatile – you can do all kinds of things with it – it’s not like whisky. We talk about painting with flavours and that’s what you can do with gin. It was a natural choice and we have been very lucky on the project that there was a boom in the market for creativity in spirits.
How did you find the home for the Silent Pool Distillery?
The original property brief we were after were log cabins, stone chimney stacks, around a lake or river. I was thinking Coldharbour or Leith Hill. I rang a lady at the Area of Natural beauty (AONB) and met her to discuss locations. At that split second the guy that was walking behind us, stopped us and said you need to talk to Michael Baxter, who runs the Duke of Northumberland’s Estate. I then met Michael, saw the Albury estate that had sheeps, cows and tractors in it – it looked like Bocketts Farm – nothing like it does today! The lease was coming up for grabs in 2 week’s time after being taken for 25 years and I signed there and then.
For any aspiring entrepreneurs reading this, what’s the best advice you can give on starting your own business?
Being patient and also being relentlessly impatient! You’ve got to try and be measured. Just keep going, just keep pushing. You have to be dogged and you can’t ever give in. There are times you think you have paddled yourself up blind creeks, and you need to backtrack and take another route upstream, then you need to do that.
If you could transport yourself back to your younger self what would you tell yourself to do differently (if anything!?)
Trust your gut. I really thought I was going into the RAF after seeing the Sunday Times Magazine ads with an upside-down plane as a kid. I could have done that but my gut told me not to. Your gut always guides you – listen to it. I was at ITV for 25 years from 1980 to 2005 and it was the best job. I probably wouldn’t change anything.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your life and why?
My old bosses at ITV were amazing. They taught me to be relentless, be ambitious, push hard.
What do you do to stay mentally healthy?
Self-start. Get out there, put your boots on, go for a walk, do sport and activities …..sometimes the stuff that has come through on mental health recently can feel a bit self-absorbed. You need to drive yourself. Get out, stay active and you will feel so much better.
SAM BURNETT, CREATIVE DIRECTOR & OWNER, HARE & BONE
Sam Burnett’s intuitive vision and creative excellence have consistently propelled him to the forefront of the hairdressing industry. His editorial, session and salon work has produced an international following while his warmth and technical appreciation have built an educational reputation that precedes him.
Over the last twenty years, demand for Sam’s ability to understand and direct a brief, alongside his unparalleled finishing skills, has seen him work with some of the biggest and most innovative names in popular culture. Fashion, technique, inclusivity, and connection work seamlessly to produce such a talent. Today, Sam’s expansive approach to hairdressing freshly blends the artistry of beauty with the philosophy of holistic wellness. An idealist in the realm of haircare, Sam is refashioning the industry by embracing a holistic approach to his work. Committed to nurturing not only the outer appearance but also inner well-being, he is transforming the way we perceive and experience haircare. Recognising that hair is not simply an external entity, but a reflection of overall well-being Sam is in pursuit of understanding the fundamental principle of the mind-body-spirit connection. Considering the emotional, energetic, and spiritual aspects of his clients, Sam goes beyond conventional techniques, providing a transformative journey that rejuvenates both the hair and the soul.
What is the secret to your success as an entrepreneur?
My biggest strengths have been trusting my intuition, being adaptable, and being willing to evolve and building a strong team around me. I am honest about my strengths and limitations, I’m an ideas guy, I love getting projects and initiatives conceptualised and started then passing them over to people who can maintain and grow them. My success has always been driven by my passion for quality and eye for detail, I put my heart into everything I do and focus on the best outcome for everyone involved. I aim to empower the people around me to grow and take ownership of the projects they are involved in and the business as a whole.
What advice would you give to boys/men just starting out in business?
I’m not big on dishing out advice, I prefer to share my relevant experience, so I will say this.
Do your research, get to know your industry inside out, I worked my way from the ground up, and I know the ins and outs of every job role in my business as I have done them all.
Have a strong vision and believe in it, while remaining open to suggestions and advice from successful people you admire who have already walked the path you are on. Better yet, ask them to mentor you; their experience could be invaluable to your growth and success.
Begin anywhere. You don’t need to have it all figured out, if you know your objectives and have a clear vision just get started, the rest will unfold as you go.
What challenges have you faced and overcome?
On a personal level I have struggled with my mental health since I was a child with periods of depression and anxiety. I was undiagnosed with ADHD and Autism until 2022, and although I have a high IQ, I found school and life challenging. This ultimately fed my desire to make something of myself, I channeled that energy into a solid work ethic.
Leaving school at 16 with below-average GCSE’s and no business qualification could be perceived as a challenge but ultimately it led me to an apprenticeship, on-the-job training and industry connections that have been invaluable. As a business, we have navigated, recessions, Covid, Brexit, the cost-of-living crisis, and much more.
What does being a positive male role model mean to you?
To be considered a positive male role model isn’t something I had considered related to me, so I find it mind-blowing. It means a lot to me; I feel incredibly grateful, especially being a gay man from humble beginnings. If my story can inspire others to take a leap of faith and believe in themselves then that alone makes me feel successful.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your lives and why?
I had a teacher at High School called Mr. Gardner who influenced my life, he believed in me and helped me to believe in myself. He took time out to encourage me to aim high, he inspired me to take chances in life and to follow my passions. My Stepfather and business partner Tim has also been a big influence. He encouraged me to change direction and leave the A Levels I was pursuing as my heart wasn’t in them, to follow my dream of becoming a hairdresser. This was a life-changing moment that has led to an exciting, successful and fulfilling career.
What 3 things do you do to stay mentally healthy?
- I have defined and healthy boundaries in my work and personal lives.
- I have a daily ongoing Spiritual practice that consists of contemplation, meditation, gratitude, positive affirmations, grounding in and connecting with nature.
- I look after my mental and physical health with regular exercise, daily reading of self-development books and therapy.
What advice would you give other men who may be going through a difficult time?
Firstly, it’s ok to be having a difficult time, we all face challenges, it’s completely normal and a healthy part of being human. All feelings and emotions are relevant, the sooner we can accept them, welcome them, feel them and let them go the sooner we can heal and grow. Please don’t suffer in silence, take action, reach out and share how you are feeling with someone, or journal on it, these actions alone are empowering and invite connection and solutions.
MANZOOR ISHANI, SOLICITOR & FRSA, STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS
Manzoor is a Surrey based solicitor in a private practice (formerly a senior partner with City firm) with more than 40 years’ experience in UK and international licensing, franchising and distribution. He has lectured on the subject for various organisations and institutions (including the International Bar Association, Union Internationale des Avocats; the City of Westminster Law Society, the International Franchise Association, the European Franchise Federation, The Institute of Marketing, NatWest Bank, Barclays Bank and RBS) to businessmen, academics and lawyers in Mexico, America, Canada, UK, the Middle East, Scandinavia, continental Europe and Australia.
He has assisted franchisors to franchise in 32 countries. More recently he has been International Development Director with Stagecoach Theatre Arts Plc forming 650 Stagecoach schools in the UK and internationally and Executive Chairman of its German subsidiary – Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Gmbh. He currently resides in Oxshott.
What is the secret to your success as an entrepreneur?
My success has depended on others. I couldn’t have done it without their support. Everyone working in reception, accounts, IT, marketing, R&D, sales, accounts, etc. and finally professional business minded lawyers. One can be possessed of entrepreneurial spirit and drive but that in itself is seldom enough.
What advice would you give to men just starting out in business?
Seek to provide products or services with which you are familiar. Avoid anything that is fashionable. Take the advice of a Chartered Accountant, they will give you a realistic estimate of how much capital you will need. Be patient, there is no fast track to success. It is said that 70% of small business start-ups fail within the first three years, so be realistic about your expectations. Whatever you do, it will be hard work and involve long hours so it is important that you have the support of your partner, it’s a lonely business at first. Be positive and be optimistic; remember good days can follow bad days. It is better to have failed than to regret not having tried at all. Having said that, there is little to compare with the euphoria you will feel if you are successful.
What challenges have you faced and overcome in your life?
As a commercial solicitor having to get to grips with the constant flow of new and ever-changing legislation: employment, intellectual property, information technology, compliance, etc. As International Development Direct of Stagecoach Performing Arts (extra-curricular part time schools teaching children between the ages of 4-18 years, the disciplines of singing, dance and drama) with responsibility for opening schools in various countries; USA, Ireland, Germany, Malta, South Africa, Australia and Greece. Although the concept was readily acceptable, the real challenge was to overcome the cultural difficulties while preserving the ethos of the concept and coping with the difficulties of conducting a business in foreign languages.
What does being a positive male role model mean to you?
Leading by example. Technical expertise apart, demonstrate that you have done what you are asking others to do. Translate your vision into a positive result by empowering others and giving them ownership of the task you assign to them. Be colour blind and be gender blind. Above all, don’t be territorial – don’t be afraid to teach others and give them the full benefit of your knowledge and experience – remember, a candle loses none of its brightness by lighting another.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your lives and why?
My father who, following misfortune, through sheer hard work, risk taking and resilience became a very successful barrister, entrepreneur and politician.
What 3 things do you do to stay mentally healthy?
Physical exercise, researching material for my books and listening to live music whenever possible.
What advice would you give other men who may be going through a difficult time?
Think nice thoughts; Good/fond memories can help overcome anxiety even if for a short period. Don’t be afraid to seek help from a professional or someone close who is non-judgemental – it’s good to talk. Look to and plan the future – tempting though it is, don’t dwell on the past you find upsetting.
REECE MARTIN
MENTAL HEALTH SURVIVOR
Reece Martin, aged 32, has had an amazing life so far and one that is worthy of sharing to help inspire others on International Men’s Day. Reece has overcome trauma, multiple mental health conditions, bullying and illness. Aged only 7, Reece sadly had to witness his Dad die of a heroin overdose. Despite his traumatic childhood, coming out as being gay and being diagnosed with ADHD, Psoriasis and Tourette’s Syndrome, he has never asked for pity, if anything his experiences, have propelled him to work harder and build a better life for himself.
Reece went on to study Performing Arts, has an NVQ in Sales & Marketing and currently works for Surrey Rocks Magazine. (He also interviewed Bradley from S Club 7 in this month’s 60 Second Interview – thanks Reece!)
“Everyone deals with things in different ways,” he admits, ”and I have channelled my traumatic experiences into making my life full and complete while also trying to help and inspire others.”
What challenges have you faced and overcome?
Growing up it’s been difficult in many aspects, seeing my mum struggle as a single mum of 3 and trying her hardest whilst my father was a heroin addict – who died because of his addiction which I witnessed when I was 7 years old.
Being bullied because I was different as I developed Tourette’s Syndrome aged 9 and Psoriasis on the skin around the same time. I have also suffered bullying and had a knife held to my throat because I was gay in my teens. I could say a hell of a lot more…I mean I question if these are the triggers to my mental health to this day, but yet I have somehow come this far because I never let those memories define me as an individual. Neither do I let it get in the way of my relationships with others.
What does being a positive male role model mean to you?
A male role model is not a celebrity to me in the slightest. Everyone can be a role model to someone. For me though as someone without a Father as they were growing up, a male role model to me is someone who actually takes care of their own and someone who will do anything within their power to ensure they are protected at all costs. I see many Male role models on a daily basis and I think they need recondition for that, because despite their own mental health and personal issues, they are also developing and helping others. Why would you want someone with millions in their bank to be your role model, when you have an everyday man that struggles and stands up to help his own and others.
What 3 things do you do mentally to stay healthy?
This is a good question, without a doubt I have tried many things over the years, yet I could not find the benefit of so many. I then discovered meditation on a deeper level through nature and I really cannot explain enough how much this changed my life. To the point that I begun to teach and help others in lockdown through meditation and relaxation on Instagram, Facebook and other platforms. A lot of people say that you have to sit cross legged and hum! This is not the case. Just by meditation 20 minutes a day it really allows you to stay in tune with yourself as an individual person alongside balancing your emotions and feelings towards the world.
I also love to dance and listen to music. This really helps me break free and feel like I can sing as loud as I want, I also dance like crazy to whatever I feel is right in that moment. I studied Performing Arts when I was younger and for someone with ADHD like myself, it really helped me not only understand myself as an individual but also grow into someone who enjoyed life. I love to be with people around me that not I only love but also love me. This really helps talking and just feeling you can express yourself for just you being you!
What advice would you give men through a difficult time?
Do not blame yourself for feeling like this firstly. Speak either to someone you know you can trust or call one of the many charity helplines to just let loose. It is ok to be angry. There will be a stage you feel lonely and scared, please do let someone you know you feel like this. I have been there and to be honest, I did not realise actually who cared for me until I said I need HELP! The hardest sentence to say to someone. YOU GOT THIS CHAMP!!
What is the secret to your success?
Success? What is that? Everyone sees success so differently. Mine for sure has changed. Somedays it was just waking up and managing to get out of bed to just walk the dog. Once I thought it was because I wrote a play about WW2 and toured it across the UK & Sweden. Success is a word, the feeling is different to each person. If you feel you just achieved one thing in the day, that is what’s successful. We are always trying to do so much at once but not able to achieve what we thought because we worry about getting everything right at once.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your lives and why?
Oh you got me on this one? if I’m honest DANNY DYER my true love. He influences me to be a bit of a GEEZA GAY with a star strong attitude. Yes, I know he is not gay himself, I mean in my dreams he is. But less of this HA-HA. Onto the next questions before I say something I shouldn’t!
GARRY MILNER
OWNER OF MILNERS, LIQS & BUMBLES
Garry Milner is a prominent figure in the Surrey business landscape, best known for his furniture, flooring, ceramic, and soft furnishings stores. Over the past 31 years, Milners has established itself as a trusted and customer-focused brand, branching into various trade services, including Bumbles and Ceramica Tiles & Bathrooms. Revolutionising the high street, Garry is dedicated to investing in independent businesses and fostering community spirit. In October 2016, he turned a personal passion for whisky into reality by opening Liquid Gold – a luxury whisky and Spirits store that encapsulates his vision for indulgence and sophistication. The e-commerce store and members-only bar, The Liqs Club, launched to great acclaim in 2023 and proudly received the ‘Best Club’ award at the Surrey Awards 2024. Liquid Gold and Liqs Club stand as a beacon in Ashtead’s high street, offering an unparalleled experience for whisky lovers. With a phenomenal collection of rare single malts, world whiskies, Cuban cigars, and Spirits, the store provides a unique opportunity to indulge in premium spirits. Beyond mere commerce, Liquid Gold emphasizes the importance of experience, offering enticing memberships and a full calendar of Live Music, Comedy, themed and VIP tasting events. Their commitment to bespoke corporate and private events further enhances the experience, inviting enthusiasts to engage in a community of like-minded individuals. As an active promoter of local commerce, Garry deeply values community connection and collaboration.
What is the secret to your success as an entrepreneur?
The secret to my success as an entrepreneur lies in my commitment to customer satisfaction, building a strong and solid team with the same vision is paramount. For the last 30 years we have continuously been evolving in response to market needs. We believe in fostering relationships with all our customers and understanding their preferences, which helps ensure loyalty and growth.
What challenges have you faced and overcome in your life?
One of the significant challenges was adapting to the changing retail landscape with the rise of e-commerce. By embracing technology and creating an online presence, I managed to diversify my business, ensuring its resilience and relevance.
What does being a positive male role model mean to you?
Being a positive male role model means embodying integrity, empathy, and responsibility. It involves leading by example, supporting others in their journeys and advocating for healthy interactions in personal and professional spaces.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your life and why?
The men who have influenced me most are my father for his work ethic, values and passion for Whisky, and my mentors in business who instilled in me the importance of community engagement and ethical practices.
What 3 things do you do to stay mentally healthy?
I have a great wife, family & friends who are my support network. As a Christian I find regular prayer helps to keep me focused and on the right path. I just aim to enjoy every day as when you enjoy what you do it’s not work.
What advice would you give other men who may be going through a difficult time?
It’s crucial to seek support when experiencing tough times. Talk to friends or professionals and don’t hesitate to express your feelings. Remember that asking for help shows strength, not weakness.
CHRIS WALLER, FOUNDER, WE POWER ON
We Power On is a local walking group for Men’s mental health and fitness set up by Chris Waller in 2022 as a result of his own struggles with mental health.
I started the Men’s Sunday Social Walk and Talk in September 2022 as a result of my own struggles and mental health decline. The first few weeks I would walk alone until one by one new members joined. WPO is now a thriving little support network. Blokes meet for a walk and talk every Sunday come rain or shine to get troubles off their chest.
Getting out for a walk can help your mental health, it can help reduce anxiety, depression, and a negative mood. It can also boost self-esteem and reduce symptoms of social withdrawal. Talking about your struggles can put you on the path to healing and recovery – It’s not easy to talk but once you do you will feel a weight lifted. The group is a space where men feel comfortable enough to want to express their feelings and talk.People connect and share without fear or judgement.
Over the past year ‘We Power On’ walk + talk has become a thriving little community that continues to grow.
What challenges have you faced and overcome?
One of the toughest challenges I’ve faced was a severe decline in my mental health which almost led to me taking my own life. Hitting my lowest of lows pushed me to seek help through my GP who referred me for CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). After the CBT ended I was on my own to work how to turn my life around. As part of my recovery, I found going for regular walks across Epsom Downs helped to clear my mind and keep me motivated to move. When I realised there wasn’t much in the way of mental health support for men in my local area, I decided to put up some leaflets to invite other blokes struggling to come along for a walk. As time went on I was joined by other blokes wanting to address their mental well-being and so ‘We Power On’ was born – a space for blokes to walk, talk and get things off their chest. I managed to turn my personal challenges into an opportunity to help others and find purpose.
What does being a positive male role model mean to you?
A positive male role model is a decent bloke who does what he needs to stay balanced, while lifting others up along the way. It’s about being honest, facing challenges head-on, and showing up, even when it’s tough. It’s about building resilience and powering on through the struggle. It’s having the courage to show vulnerability as a strength and not a weakness. Above all, it’s about treating others with kindness and respect.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your lives and why?
The men who have had the biggest influence on my life are the blokes who show up for the walk every Sunday. These guys are facing their own challenges – whether it’s battling suicidal thoughts, anxiety, divorce, grief, or complicated home situations. Yet, despite all that, they still turn up every week, not just for themselves, but for each other. Their resilience and commitment to supporting one another is inspiring. I’ve learned a lot from each of them. They’ve shown me the power of connection, community, and camaraderie which has given me a new perspective on my own life.
What advice would you give other boys/men who may be going through a difficult time?
Don’t suffer in silence. I did that for years, and it nearly broke me. It’s okay to admit when you’re struggling, and it’s okay to ask for help. Bottling it up only up can make things worse and can leave you feeling isolated. Reaching out -whether to a friend, family, or a professional is the first step toward getting the support you need. Don’t get bogged down by stereotypes or how you think men should act. We need to break the stigma and talk openly about what we’re going through. Us humans are not meant to struggle alone – there is a lot of power in connection, community and surrounding ourselves with supportive people.
What is the secret to your success?
For me, success is about being in a much more mentally stable place than I was a few years ago. A positive mindset and resilience have been key in helping me rebuild my life. Now, instead of feeling overwhelmed by challenges, I see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Consistency and commitment have helped me reach personal goals, but the real game-changer has been surrounding myself with supportive people. That’s what has added the most value to my life and contributed to the success of ‘We Power On’ – having a strong community by my side.
SID DA BARBER,
Lewis Sidney Gumbrell, widely known as Sid Da Barber, is one of the UK’s premier barbers based in Guildford, Surrey. With a passion for grooming ignited in his teens, Sid qualified in hairdressing at just 20 years old and has since established himself as a leader in the men’s grooming sector. Currently, Sid serves as the Creative Director and Manager at Jacks of London in Guildford, where he leads a talented team while providing top-notch barbering services. As a multi-award-winning finalist and a proud member of the UK Top 100 Barbers, his dedication to excellence is unmatched. Sid’s expertise has been featured in prestigious publications, including The Barber Magazine, Hairdressers Journal, Modern Barber, Barber Evo, Revista Coiffure and Estetica Magazine. He also shares his insights and the latest trends in barbering as a columnist for Surrey Rocks Magazine. Recognized for his exceptional skills, Sid’s commitment to the craft inspires both aspiring barbers and grooming enthusiasts worldwide.
What challenges have you faced and overcome?
I’ve faced significant challenges with anxiety, stage fright and imposter syndrome. Each of these has been a battle in its own right, requiring consistent effort and resilience. Overcoming these obstacles has involved a combination of self-awareness, ongoing personal development, and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone. I’ve learned that confronting these fears directly, rather than avoiding them, has been crucial to my growth both personally and professionally.
What does being a positive male role model mean to you?
For me, being a positive male role model means embodying a standard of integrity and respect. It’s about setting an example for others by valuing oneself and those around you. This involves showing strength through vulnerability, demonstrating empathy, and leading with a sense of purpose. It’s not just about success in the traditional sense but about inspiring others to strive for their best while also embracing their challenges.
Who are the men who have had the biggest influence on your life and why?
David Lopez, the owner of DLO Hairdressing, has had a profound impact on my career and life. He introduced me to the industry and set high standards for me to aspire to. David remains an inspiration to this day my sensei providing guidance and inspiration that continually shapes my approach to the craft and my outlook on life. His example has shown me the importance of dedication and the pursuit of excellence.
What 3 things do you do to stay mentally healthy?
Maintaining mental health is an active and ongoing process for me. I prioritize regular, open discussions with other barbers in my industry, which create a space for shared experiences and mutual support. Meditation is another key practice; it helps me stay grounded and cultivates mindfulness in my daily life. Additionally, I incorporate cold showers into my routine, as they not only help in physical recovery but also build mental resilience by challenging my comfort levels.
What advice would you give to other boys/men who may be going through a difficult time?
I would encourage them to focus on the present moment and not be overwhelmed by past regrets or future uncertainties. Hard times are temporary, and you always have the power to make positive changes. It’s essential to acknowledge the difficulties without letting them define you. Take small steps, reach out for support when needed, and remember that each day brings a new opportunity for growth and healing.
What is the secret to your success?
The foundation of my success lies in consistency and the effort to continually build relationships. I make it a point to connect weekly with others, whether that involves networking within the hairdressing community or collaborating with local businesses. This commitment to steady progress and expanding my circle of influence has been instrumental in creating sustainable growth.
