At the heart of Essentially Man (EM) lies a simple yet profound question: What does it mean to be a man? Founded by a seasoned traveller who’s observed masculinity across over a hundred countries, EM is a space for real discussions about what it means to be a man.

Ben, an Australian native, grew up in a typical nuclear family. His father, though admirable, remained distant — an 'island' unto himself. Without direct guidance, Ben set out to piece together his own understanding of masculinity.

During his travels, he met men from all backgrounds, each offering a unique take on what it means to be a man. These experiences led him to a clear understanding: while certain traits are shared by many, the real strength of masculinity lies in its individuality and personal expression.

EM was born from a desire to delve deeper into the global narrative of masculinity, to offer a platform for men struggling with their identities and to uncover strategies that resonate across continents. This is a forum for sharing, for learning, and, ultimately, for understanding.

EM doesn't claim to define what a man should be. Instead, the focus is on listening, engaging, and understanding what works — the practices and beliefs that, despite differences, men echo universally. The commitment is to tackle issues head-on, with an approach rooted in transparency, authenticity, and evidence-based insight.

At EM, it's the chorus of men's voices that forms the core of the project. This isn't about one man's vision but about fostering a conversation, where every man's story is heard. EM is building a community where shared experiences and individual perspectives shape a richer understanding of masculinity for all.