Hope Phakwago, or Pretty Gent, is not just unmasking his struggles with gynecomastia; he is paving the way for empathy, understanding, and acceptance in an age where digital footprints often define our realities
Image: Hope Phakwago, digital content creator/instagram
In an age where social media has become both a platform for self-expression and a breeding ground for criticism, Hope Phakwago, known as Pretty Gent on social platforms, is challenging stereotypes and educating his audience about a health condition most people know little about, gynecomastia.
Phakwago, a digital content creator with a growing following, recently posted a heartfelt and eye-opening video addressing the negativity and misconceptions surrounding his appearance.
His candid discussion about living with gynecomastia has not only gone viral but has also sparked critical conversations about body image, empathy, and the power of a digital footprint.
"I am a man with boobs”
In the video, Phakwago directly addressed his followers, some of whom have been cruel in the comments section of his content.
“A few days ago, I posted a video where my boobs were clearly visible, and quite a lot of people left comments that I can say are very interesting, to say the least. The truth is, I have gynecomastia,” he explains.
Gynecomastia, as Phakwago educated his followers, is the swelling of male breast tissue due to hormonal imbalance.
“What happens is that the male breast tissue swells up due to a reduced male hormone (testosterone) or an increase in the female hormone in the male’s body called estrogen.”
Phakwago went on to explain that the condition can be caused by factors such as puberty, ageing, medication, or other health conditions that interfere with hormone levels.
Symptoms typically include breast enlargement and, in some cases, pain around the breast area. He also reassures his audience that gynecomastia is often easily diagnosable and, in many cases, treatable, with surgery being a common option for those who wish to address it.
Phakwago’s video wasn’t just about explaining his condition; it was also a call for compassion and understanding.
“So no, I’m not a transformer like some of you guys have called me. I’m just a man who has gynecomastia, and there’s absolutely no shame in that,” he explained.
He also touched on the insensitivity and ignorance often displayed in social media comment sections.
“Another thing I’ve realised is that people do not understand the power of a digital footprint. You guys are very careless in people’s comment sections, and as a result, you end up being either homophobic or transphobic, all in the name of wanting to understand.”
His words struck a chord with many, with users expressing gratitude and empathy in the comments.
One user, @thando_553, wrote, “We learn every day. Thank you for educating us. 👏❤️.”
@Sibhekuza_SomkaNzima shared their own experience: “Thank you for the explanation. I also have leyo gynecomastia, and my brother on Saturday asked ukuthi kwenzekani with so much disgust, yhoo.”
These comments show how Phakwago’s openness is creating a safe space for others to share their stories and feel less alone.
The weight of a digital footprint
In the video’s closing moments, Phakwago delivered a powerful reminder about the long-term consequences of online behaviour. He warned that the insensitive comments people leave online could have real-world implications.
“Those people that you are making those comments to on social media are your future potential employers. I’m saying this because the majority of these comments come from young people who are in varsity.
"The power of a digital footprint is going to kick in when you go for an interview, and you ace that interview, but because of your homophobic and transphobic digital footprint, your counterpart candidates will be chosen instead of you,” he said.
His message rings true for almost every South African. Considering the high employment rate we face as a country.
Gynecomastia affects an estimated 30% to 70% of males at some point in their lives, with the highest prevalence occurring during puberty, middle age, and older adulthood, according to the Endocrine Society.
His words also underscore the importance of empathy in digital spaces. Social media has the power to connect us, but it can also be a place of harm if used irresponsibly.
The conversations sparked by Phakwago’s video go beyond gynecomastia. They touch on broader issues of body image, toxic masculinity, and the societal pressures that dictate what is considered “normal.”
In a world where men are often expected to conform to rigid standards of masculinity, Phakwago’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all definition of what it means to be a man.
While gynecomastia is a common medical issue, it is often misunderstood and stigmatised. In some cases, men with gynecomastia face body shaming and social ridicule, which can lead to mental health struggles such as low self-esteem and anxiety.
Additionally, there is growing concern that transphobia affects individuals with gynecomastia, as some men experience discrimination due to misconceptions about gender identity and masculinity.
His message is particularly relevant to South Africans, given the country’s complex history and ongoing struggles with inequality and discrimination. In sharing his truth, Phakwago is contributing to a culture of openness and acceptance that is essential for progress.