As part of Gillette‘s #TheBestMenCanBe campaign, they highlighted men in our community that embody new models of masculinity. Open School East’s Counseling Manager shared his wisdom with the campaign in a series of short videos shared on social media.

In this video and every day, Ethan demonstrates Open School’s unique approach to working with youth, and especially young men impacted by trauma. He models vulnerability with students by sharing his own story and struggles. In his office, he runs small groups and one-on-one counseling sessions with students to check in with their emotions. In the halls, he tells students that he loves them and he is proud of them.

We know that representation matters. When we break through the limiting stereotypes of what it means to be “manly”, we can all be our most authentic selves. Thank you to Gillette for amplifying these compassionate young men of color and for investing in our students!