A suit, a haircut or a pose no longer define the modern gentleman. Instead, he is shaped by evolving expectations around identity, grooming, culture, personal well-being and self-respect.
In a world where appearance influences opportunities, speakers emphasised the importance of intentional self-care. Across fashion, culture, and mental health, a new image of the gentleman is emerging, grounded in authenticity and discipline.
Six Pillars Shaping Modern Masculine Identity
In an era where image opens doors faster than conversations, the question of what defines a modern gentleman is more urgent than ever.
At the International Men's Day panel of the "Triple G – Groom, Grow, Grind" event featuring designers Jason Samuel and Ugo Monye, both speakers drew a clear connection between appearance, grooming, emotional wellness and the evolving expectations of contemporary masculinity.
Across fashion, culture and personal responsibility, they argued that today's man must curate himself deliberately, because the world responds before he speaks.
Evolving Fashion, Culture And Personal Expression
The panellists began by redefining the gentleman beyond stereotypes. Jason described the modern man as someone who knows who he is, what he represents, and how he carries himself in different environments. For him, personal branding is not accidental but intentional: "It is what I give out that I'm perceived as," he said.
Ugo, reflecting on his own evolution since 2017, said personal image changes with exposure, culture and insight. His pivot to "African royalty dressing" came from a realisation that global relevance can be built from local authenticity, a shift that redefined his identity and influence.
Together, they dismantled the idea that fashion is superficial. Whether wearing a Niboka, a tailored suit or full regalia abroad, where strangers routinely ask Ugo if he is a "prince from Africa", both speakers emphasised that attire communicates identity long before words do.
Core Components of the Modern Gentleman (Panel Insights)
| Component | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Image & Presentation | First layer of identity; shapes perception before speech. | Jason & Ugo |
| Grooming | Hygiene, smell, haircut, clean clothes, breath — "non-negotiables." | Ugo |
| Cultural Expression | African attire, heritage, color codes, symbolism. | Jason |
| Wardrobe Staples | T-shirt, black suit, jeans; kaftan, agbada, slides. | Both |
| Mental Health | Managing pressure, burnout, isolation, and emotional burdens. | Both |
| Self-Respect | How you treat yourself determines how others treat you. | Jason & Ugo |
Building A Stronger, Healthier, Better-Groomed Man
For both designers, grooming is the bridge between appearance and opportunity. A man can be talented yet lose credibility through poor hygiene or careless dressing. "Your appearance gets you into the room, but it doesn't guarantee you a seat," Jason emphasised.
Ugo shared strict non-negotiables: no unpleasant smell, polished shoes, clean clothes, fresh breath, intentional posture and proper walking style. A poorly groomed person, he warned, loses respect instantly regardless of talent.
Beyond grooming, they spoke passionately about mental health. Men, they argued, carry invisible burdens quietly; societal pressure encourages silence. Jason, raised in a traditional household and supporting family from age 19, admitted to emotional exhaustion, saying, "It is a lot of mental work."
Ugo shared the story of a friend who suffered a stroke, a painful reminder that men often hide struggles from those closest to them. "We need to be more intentional about our friendships," he said, calling for vulnerability among men.
The modern gentleman, they concluded, is not a perfect figure but a disciplined one; attentive both to the visible (clothes, grooming) and invisible (mental health, confidence, voice).
Modern Gentleman Blueprint
Practical Habits For A Polished, Confident Life
The speakers urged men to start where they are, not with luxury, but with discipline. Grooming can be affordable: clean clothes, ironing, basic cologne, simple haircuts, and attention to hygiene. "It's the mindset that starts small," Jason reminded the audience.
They also stressed emotional upkeep: taking breaks, stepping away from work, practising self-care rituals, and learning to communicate openly with friends. "Love yourself first," Ugo insisted, a message that resonated deeply.
PATH FORWARD — Six Priorities Guiding Masculine Reinvention
The panel calls for men to adopt a holistic approach to self-presentation, combining style, grooming, culture and mental well-being. Fashion, they argue, should reflect both heritage and confidence, while grooming reinforces credibility and respect.
Looking ahead, they urge a new masculinity built on self-respect, emotional honesty, cultural pride and personal responsibility. A modern gentleman, they conclude, is shaped by inner and outer discipline and by the courage to evolve.
