Men around the world are Priyani (2021) Hindi Short Filmmaking a simple yet powerful statement in an attempt to end violence against children.

For the month of October, Australian-based nonprofit YGAP is encouraging men to take part in its social impact campaign, Polished Man, by painting one fingernail to raise awareness and funds to support the one in five children who suffer physical and/or sexual violence before the age of 18.

In its third year, the campaign is receiving support from noteworthy names like actors Chris Hemsworth and Tyler Blackburn, photographer David Higgs and Olympic gold medalist Michael Klim, all of whom have broken through the stereotypical concept of "manliness" by showing off their powerful "man-icures."


You May Also Like

SEE ALSO: Charlotte girl delivers tearful plea to city council to end the violence

The idea for "Polished Man" all started when YGAP’s CEO, Elliot Costello, met a recently rescued girl named Thea while visiting Hagar International in Cambodia.

View this post on Instagram

According to the YGAP website, when Thea was 8 years old, she was physically and sexually assaulted for two years after being sent to an orphanage. During Costello's trip, he bonded with Thea and before he left she drew a heart on his palm and painted his nails blue.

Mashable Light Speed Want more out-of-this world tech, space and science stories? Sign up for Mashable's weekly Light Speed newsletter. By clicking Sign Me Up, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Thanks for signing up!

After hearing Thea’s story, Costello decided to start painting one of his nails to remember her by, and was inspired to share his experience with others to raise awareness and make a change.

Original image replaced with Mashable logoOriginal image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable Original image replaced with Mashable logoOriginal image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable Original image replaced with Mashable logoOriginal image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable Original image replaced with Mashable logoOriginal image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

"The power to stop this is on your hands. It starts with painting a fingernail. That nail leads to a conversation. That conversation inspires a donation. That donation allows for prevention and protection," Costello wrote on the Polished Man website.

As for ladies looking to show their support, in addition to participating in the one polished nail trend, the campaign asks women to encourage men by helping them with their polishing skills and telling the world “I prefer a #PolishedMan” by posting a photograph to social media. 

So far the campaign has raised $257,227, and all funds will reportedly be donated to trauma recovery and trauma prevention programs for children who have suffered or are at risk of suffering violence globally. In addition, funds will also be channelled into future projects being carried out by Hagar International, The Australian Childhood Foundation, The New York Centre for Children and World Vision Australia.

Mashablereached out to YGAP for comment.

Topics Instagram Social Good Social Media

Author

Editorial Team

Our editorial team is dedicated to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging content. With expertise across various domains, we strive to inform and inspire our readers.