The third Mighty Men Conference is scheduled to take place in Mossel Bay from 8 to 10 May this year, and South African men from all corners of the country are encouraged to mark their calendars and register for a gathering that promises to once again offer a life-changing experience.
Important to note is that the location for this seminal get-together of like-minded men has changed from Bartelsfontein Farm, which previously served as host venue, to the beautiful coastal resort of ATKV Hartenbos in Mossel Bay.
Says Lukas Swart, who serves on the management committee of the iconic tourism town’s Mighty Men chapter: “We are grateful to ATKV Hartenbos that kindly availed its amphitheatre for our 2026 conference. Their generosity enables us to offer free entry to all men registered to attend.
“Furthermore, there will be no fee charged for camping on their beautiful grounds – an established, tree-filled area within sight and sound of the Indian Ocean. Campsites have easy access to excellent ablutions and the ATKV Amphitheatre, where a range of speakers will inspire men to live out their faith boldly.”
“Arise” is the theme selected for this year’s Mighty Men Mossel Bay Conference, calling on men to step into their roles as prophets, priests and kings in every sphere of life. “Arise” is God’s call to men who have been sitting too long. Throughout the Bible, when God says “arise”, it’s usually directed at someone who is discouraged, stuck, afraid or carrying a burden.
And then God interrupts that state. “Arise, shine, for your light has come…” (Isaiah 60:1). “This isn’t a suggestion, it’s a command tied to identity, a call to action for men to lead with integrity and faith, positively impacting their families, workplaces and communities,” says Swart.
Here is our message to the men:
- • You can’t live off yesterday’s faith, your father’s faith or someone else’s calling. God is calling you to stand up and lead.
- • Your mistakes don’t disqualify you. Staying down does.
- • It’s not too late. You’re not too far gone. You’re not too old. God is still calling you forward.
When delving into the history of the national Mighty Men movement, its rapid growth over the past 22 years is a significant factor. Founded in 2004 by author and evangelist Angus Buchan, it was inspired by his desire to mentor men to be godly leaders – a concept stemming from the ‘mighty men’ of King David.
Followers attending gatherings under Buchan’s Shalom Trust umbrella grew from around 240 men in 2004 to more than 60 000 in 2008 – and hundreds of thousands by 2010. Core messages shared at these conferences include repentance, repairing family relationships and reclaiming the role of men as spiritual leaders in their homes.
And the great outdoors has always been part of the plan. Explains Swart: “These are non-denominational outdoor camping events, often in rural settings and characterised by a rustic, informal atmosphere. ATKV Hartenbos is perfect for this purpose.
“The original Shalom Trust national events ended in 2010, but smaller, independent Mighty Men events continue to take place across South Africa.”
He adds that the early conferences were highlighted in the film and book, Faith Like Potatoes.
This exposure significantly impacted many potential attendees, particularly among Afrikaans-speaking men, by promoting a message of faith and accountability in a time when South Africans experienced a particularly challenging social landscape.
When visiting its various social media platforms, the message of the Mighty Men Conference is simple but powerful: encouraging men to take their rightful place to bless those around them. “When men walk in the way of Jesus, families thrive, communities prosper and nations are transformed. Women are respected, loved and protected, and children grow up in nurturing environments.”
Swart summarises: “We welcome day visitors, and the event is hugely popular with campers who pitch their tents for the weekend. All men are invited. The event is free – and Sunday is a family service, so wives and kids are encouraged to join us on 10 May.”
Speakers will be as follows:
- • Friday evening – Freek Vermaak
- • Saturday morning – Mark Ellis
- • Saturday evening – Dewald Gouws and Mark Ellis
- • Sunday morning – Anthony Noble
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a journey that inspires and empowers with powerful teachings, passionate worship and life-changing testimonies. Register today and prepare for a weekend of connection, growth and spiritual renewal.
