A new digital comic series called “Soy Boy” has been developed by a collaboration of RMIT students, educators, and violence prevention experts to combat online disinformation and promote respect, especially among young men. The comic, titled “The Adventures of Soy Boy and Friends,” features characters like Soy Boy, T-Bone, Avo, and Pot Noodle navigating the complexities of university life while emphasizing the importance of credible sources and algorithms.

Launched as part of the 2025 Respect at Uni Week, the first edition of the comic sheds light on the challenges faced by young men when false information spreads and influences their perceptions. This initiative, occurring from March 17 to 21, aims to create a sense of community among students and staff, encouraging them to address gender-based harm and foster a culture of respect and safety on campus.

The term “Soy Boy,” often used disparagingly online to describe men who do not conform to traditional masculine stereotypes, is a focal point of the comic series. By debunking myths surrounding soy milk and testosterone levels with input from RMIT nutrition expert Dr. Sharayah Carter, the comic encourages open dialogues and the importance of verifying information in an era dominated by algorithms and misinformation.

The project, spearheaded by RMIT’s Prevention and Respect team under the leadership of Shelley Hewson-Munro, began over a year ago with workshops involving male students to explore outdated stereotypes and engage peers in tackling common issues. These sessions led to the creation of a comic series that reflects the modern challenges faced by students in a digitally saturated world.

Illustrated by recent RMIT graduate Millie Ovenden, the Soy Boy comics are set to release more stories throughout the year. This collaborative effort underscores the university’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment where students, educators, and researchers work together to support each other and promote mutual thriving.

The “Soy Boy” comic series serves as a creative platform to address online disinformation, challenge harmful narratives, and empower young men to seek the truth while fostering a culture of respect and understanding in educational settings. Through engaging storytelling and thoughtful collaboration, RMIT continues to lead initiatives that prioritize student well-being and community cohesion in the face of evolving societal challenges.