Many boys and young men grow up carrying a wound—the absence or emotional distance of a father figure. This ‘father wound’ deeply impacts a young man’s sense of identity, self-worth purpose. If not addressed, it can shape an individuals life from birth and future fatherhood.
Fatherhood has a powerful influence. It can shape an individual’s entire life. When a father is present, caring, loving, and engaged, his impact is foundational. But when he is absent, he leaves behind becomes what many call the father wound. This can be emotional distance, unengaged or destructive.
For many boys and young men, this wound is real—but often unseen and unspoken. And yet, its impact shows up everywhere: in school, at home and other relationships. Though unseen, the inner battle silently rages on in their hearts.
This Father’s Day, we will not just celebrate dad. We are aiming to heal hearts of young men who are growing up with a father wound. It is time to break the vicious cycle.
What is a Father Wound?
The father wound is a deep emotional pain caused by a father’s absence. This can be due to a number of reasons, and limited to the following:-
- physical absence
- emotional unavailability
- abuse – physical, emotional or sexual
- overly critical, or
- simply disengaged
This is not about blaming fathers. Rather it is about understanding the pain that is caused so healing can happen. For boys and young men, father wound distorts their identity, self-worth, and purpose. Without the affirmation and guidance of a father figure, many young men are left asking:
- Am I enough?
- Do I really matter?
- What does it mean to be a man?
The Impact of Father Wound on Young Men
Without proper guidance and healing, young men growing up with a father wound often:
- Struggle with identity and self-worth
Young men may feel confused, lost or question their value. This happens when a young man constantly compare himself with other young men. By so doing, they lose their identity and self-worth.
- Suppress emotions
Right from childhood, many young men are taught to ‘be tough’, to ‘stay strong’ or ‘don’t be like a woman.’ They are never given a safe space to express their fear, doubt, anger, sadness, or vulnerability. With time, they learn how to suppress their emotions and feelings.
- Act out or total shut down
Young men express anger, rebellion or risky behavior due to unresolved emotional pain. This can cause them to constantly isolate or avoid contact with their family and the rest of the world. If not addressed, acting out and total shut down can result into violence and abuse of self and others.
- The fear of becoming like their father
Young men may carry shame or fear that they’ll repeat the same mistakes their fathers have committed. They may also fear failing those who depend on them. The fear of becoming like their father can result into feeling not good enough. This causes young men to question their existence, leading to suicidal thoughts.
But here’s the good news: healing and overcoming the father wound is possible. Reaching greatness and wholeness is within reach.
Introducing Born for Greatness Father’s Day Camp
This year, Born for Greatness is launching a Father’s Day Camp. This is a life-changing event that designed to help young men to overcome father wounds. It is a powerful, purpose-driven experience for boys and young men and the families who love them. Whether a young man has an active father, a strained relationship, or no connection at all, this camp is a safe space for healing, growth and hope.
What Makes this Camp Unique?
- Heart-Healing Sessions
Guided conversations and interactive activities that help boys to process father wounds, release anger, and find healing.
- Mentorship and Leadership Training
Strong male mentors walk alongside the boys, modeling healthy masculinity, responsibility, and emotional strength.
- Faith-Based Identity Building
We help young men understand who they are in God’s eyes—chosen, loved, and destined for greatness.
- Parent/Guardian Engagement
We provide tools for open dialogue, emotional reconnection, and building long-term relationship.
- Brotherhood and Fun
From outdoor activities to group challenges, boys build confidence, friendships, and lasting memories.
Who is this Camp for?
- Young men ages 17 – 24
- Parents, guardians, or mentors who want to walk this healing journey together
- Families ready to break cycles and raise healthy, grounded men
- Anyone who believes that the past doesn’t have to define the future
🗓️ June 13th to 15th
📍 [Insert Location]
🔗 Register now: https://bornforgreatness.co.ke/event/fathers-day-camp/