The Wellness Collective Summit, hosted by WomenCan on August 4 at Pere House, took significant strides in shaping the future of health and well-being by empowering individuals on innovative well-being and harm reduction approaches.

The summit, led by healthcare experts and government, brought together over 250 individuals, guiding them towards healthier lifestyles, raising awareness of the risks associated with harmful substances, and promoting holistic wellness approaches.

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Speaking at the summit, Mbali Mapholi, specialist consultant dietician, highlighted that the negative risks and effects of modifiable lifestyle choices such as smoking, excess alcohol intake, obesity, and daily pressures of work contribute to the growing burden of chronic disease.

“We’re seeing a new generation of people who are more informed and more proactive about their health than ever before. That’s encouraging, but information alone isn’t enough,” said Mapholi.

“Our role is to help people turn that knowledge into action by making healthy choices feel simple, practical, and achievable by focusing on prevention, reducing risk and promoting healthier lifestyles.”

Buhle Binta, head of scientific engagement for Sub-Saharan Africa at Philip Morris International, welcomed and encouraged independent research on their smoke-free products, methods, and results.

Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, former deputy minister of health emphasised that the foundations of life expectancy and overall wellbeing begin at birth. “Our quality of life is shaped by both the choices we make and the actions we neglect. Prevention, early intervention, and healthy lifestyle choices are essential to improving long-term health outcomes,” he said.

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Opening her keynote address with warmth and energy, Gauteng MEC of Health and Wellness, Faith Mazibuko, commended the summit, and it partners for bringing together experts, leaders, and communities around a topic that affects every South African.

“Wellness and harm reduction is no longer simply personal responsibilities. It is a national priority. It is central to building healthier families, stronger communities, and a more productive economy,” said Mazibuko.

“Many of the illnesses placing enormous pressure on our healthcare system, including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and many cancers, are influenced by lifestyle. While genetics and other factors play a role, many of these diseases can be prevented or delayed through healthier living.”

She reminded delegates that, “happiness leads to a healthy lifestyle,” emphasising that wellbeing extends beyond physical health to include emotional and mental wellness.

She noted that a lack of joy can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other lifestyle diseases, reinforcing the summit’s theme of innovative well-being and harm reduction approaches through a holistic approach to health.

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