JJB gave an inspiring talk about his life philosophy, how his career has taken him from the rugby pitch to Director of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion and then Chief Executive of Leeds Rhinos.
He spoke about team culture and cohesion, and how the caring culture of the generation he played with brought about success, attributing his achievements to the outstanding people he surrounded himself with. He encouraged NHS colleagues who attended to do the same and ‘find your tribe.’
“No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” – Jamie Jones-Buchanan
JJB said: “International Men’s Day is important to me because during my life’s journey I’ve grown up with a lot of outstanding young men who have helped me thrive in my career and fulfil my potential. It was an absolute pleasure for me to share some of the stories that have helped shape who I am with staff at Leeds Hospitals.”
He added: “No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care. The care within our tribes and communities goes a long way towards our mental health in my experience. Supporting the NHS and people’s health and wellbeing in Leeds is hugely important to me and the club.”
JJB talked about the importance not just of finding your gift in life, but on giving that gift to others – to ‘pay forward your passion.’ He spoke about the greatness of his friends and teammates – many of whom have working class backgrounds who have gone on to achieve great things – including Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield, and the different gifts they contributed to the team’s successes.
Colleagues from across the Trust joined the event at St James’s Hospital to hear JJB’s talk, including Magnus Harrison, Chief Medical Officer, and Paul Jones, Executive Director of DIT.
Magnus said: “JJB has a wealth of experience to share and his stories of teamwork, leadership and resilience provided some remarkable insights that really spoke to our Trust’s shared values. Not to mention he had some cracking anecdotes from his lengthy career in sport. I want to thank JJB for giving of his time so freely and generously for our colleagues on International Men’s Day.”
The Men’s Action and Awareness Network (MAAN) at Leeds Hospitals brings together all colleagues interested in men’s health from across the organisation, with monthly meetings featuring guest speakers on a variety of topics, including fitness and mental health issues.
Started almost four years ago by colleagues David Goulding and James Royal, the group was set up to address the fact that many male health issues go under the radar due to a lack of awareness. In the UK, 1 in 5 men will die before the age of 65. 76% of people who die by suicide in the UK are male, and suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 35. Men are also more likely than women to be overweight or obese.
David Goulding, joint chair of MAAN, said: “I’m Incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished with MAAN supporting men’s physical and mental wellbeing in Leeds for the NHS. Celebrating International Men’s Day whilst hearing JJB talk about teamwork, resilience, courage, and caring for your tribe, community and family was truly inspirational. It was a real honour to welcome him as guest speaker. A massive thank you to all who have supported MAAN over the last four years.”
The support group meets during a lunch hour every month and will usually have a guest speaker to talk about a particular topic relating to men’s health. Promoting active fitness, sport and exercise has been a key item on the group’s agenda, and the network has taken advantage of the city’s many sporting links over the past three years, collaborating with Leeds Rhinos and Leeds United Football Club to provide exclusive player interviews and fitness opportunities for NHS staff.
Since starting in late 2021, the group has covered a whole range of subjects, including prostate and testicular cancer, suicide prevention, toxic masculinity, mindful alcohol consumption, fitness, and various aspects of mental health. Recent funding donated by Leeds Hospitals Charity has helped allow the group to flourish.