At first glance, beekeeping might seem an unusual hobby to introduce to young men – a group often discussed in policy and research as being “at risk”, of poor mental health and disengaged from society.

Yet perhaps it is precisely because of these societal expectations that beekeeping has such power as an activity. This is something I have witnessed through my work with North East Young Dads and Lads, an organisation dedicated to helping young dads play an active and meaningful role in the lives of their children.

For years, I have argued against the tendency to frame young men through the language of crisis. Young men are frequently portrayed as a problem to be solved or a population to be managed. Much of the contemporary discussion centres on the “manosphere” and the social ills of social media, gaming and pornography.

Even through more positive approaches to masculinity, less attention is paid to the forms of creativity, care and curiosity that emerge when young men are given opportunities to cultivate interests and develop habits that provide meaning and purpose. Environmental and ecological work is especially adept at this, especially for young men living in urban areas with little to no private outside space.

Hobbies can bring joy, wellbeing and focus to our busy lives, but so many of us don’t have one. If you’re ready to replace scrolling with stitching, or hustle with horticulture, The Hobby Starter Kit (a new series from Quarter Life) will help you get going.

I am part of a team of community beekeepers who look after an apiary (bee yard) site on the rooftop of Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. We also offer training to young men at a community garden in Gateshead, but there are........

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