Client Solutions Specialist Jim Bottomley will look a little different this month, as he kick-starts an important conversation about men’s health at Elastomers Australia.

While his new facial accessory might look a bit funny (and get a bit itchy!), Jim is growing a Mo for the annual Movember fundraiser to raise awareness of men’s health issues.

Inspired by a close friend who tragically lost a colleague to suicide, Jim made the decision to partake in this year’s Movember fundraiser, growing a wacky moustache to raise awareness and funds for men’s physical and mental health.

“My main goal is to encourage more men to speak up about any challenges they are facing and to have some fun along the way,” Jim said.

“It resonated with me that blokes don’t talk much about their physical health, and they talk about their mental health even less,” Jim said.

Jim explains for those unable to grow a moustache, there are alternative ways to participate and raise funds for Movember.

“Whether it be colouring your hair, chucking on some moustache apparel or simply encouraging these talks with the men in your lives, a collective effort is the first step to keeping these conversations year-round” Jim says.

Despite Jim’s involvement in the fundraiser, for him it’s not just about raising lots of money. His hope is that men will use this opportunity to simply join in on the fun and grow a Mo.

“[Growing a mo] creates a lot of discussion, it’s really a whole month of having a conversation starter on your top lip”.

“The more people grow an out of character Mo on their face, the more people will have a laugh [and] potentially start asking questions and having important conversations,” Jim said.

Jim’s commitment to advocating for men’s health extends beyond Movember, as he also takes part in the annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) in May.

Founded in Australia, this event’s mission is to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.

Recalling his participation in the event last year, Jim revealed that the number of people who would ask questions about the purpose of the DGR was astounding.

“I saw firsthand the positive impact that these events can have on men,” Jim said.

 “Just last year someone saw us riding through WA and went to get a check done,” Jim said. “Turns out they had prostate cancer, but they were able to get on top of it”.

Responsible for overseeing the Newman region, Jim has been a pillar for change, some including updates to branding and managing integral relationships with stakeholders. Considering his recent efforts to shine a light on men’s health, it is clear to see progress is in his nature.

If you would like to support Jim this month you can visit his fundraiser page to donate.

If you or someone you know needs help, call LifeLine on 13 11 14.

The Movember website also offers an extensive collection of resources to provide support, whether its for yourself, a friend, father, son, brother, or significant male mentor in your life.