A Breath of Hope

A Voice for the Unheard

Mrs. Refilwe McIntyre is a visionary leader and mental health advocate dedicated to reshaping the landscape of male wellness in Botswana. As the founder of the Boys to Men Trauma Recovery Center (BTMTRC), she has committed her life’s work to creating safe, stigma-free spaces where boys and men can heal from trauma and build lasting emotional resilience. Her approach is rooted in the belief that a healthy nation begins with the emotional well-being of its men.

Mini-Bio: Mrs. Refilwe McIntyre

Mrs. Refilwe McIntyre is a pioneering mental health professional based in Maun, Botswana. With a profound understanding of the unique psychological challenges faced by men in diverse sectors—from students and safari guides to members of the disciplined forces—she established BTMTRC to bridge the gap in culturally sensitive mental health services.

Under her leadership, the center has launched vital initiatives like the ‘My Brother’s Keeper’ peer support sessions and specialized trauma workshops for the Botswana Defence Force and Police Service. Refilwe is a firm believer in “trauma-informed care,” focusing on empowering individuals with practical coping tools and emotional intelligence to break the cycle of isolation and stigma.

Beyond her clinical and strategic work, she is a community builder who advocates for data-driven policy changes and accessible resources for men in crisis across the country. Her mission remains clear: to build a nation where every man feels supported and empowered to thrive.