The national men's conference, which starts today, is aimed at encouraging Jamaican men to stand up and reclaim their true positions in society.

Courtney Campbell, chairman of the conference, said Jamaican men have lost focus and, as such, are performing way below their true potential.

Campbell said the purpose of the conference, which is being held under the theme, 'Covenant: Jamaica's Men on a Mission', is to evangelise Jamaican men to a commitment to God, home, family and society.

The conference is being organised by a team of Christian men drawn from various denominations across the religious spectrum.

"We want to challenge men to take an improved leadership role in our churches, to encourage them to provide mentorship for our young men so that there is a gradual but lasting change in society."

Orville Taylor, one of several speakers slated for the two-day conference, said the event is not intended to be an immediate solution, but a starting point in the larger process of getting Jamaican men to change their thinking and their lives.

"We are hoping to sensitise an audience who will then pass the message on," he said.