Mental health, leadership resilience and workplace wellbeing recently took centre stage at the Ballito Mental Health and Wellness Summit 2026 at SMG BMW Ballito on May 30.

Hosted by The Fortunate Organisation under the theme Centred Wellness, the summit brought together business leaders, healthcare professionals and entrepreneurs to discuss the impact of mental health on leadership, workplace performance and personal wellbeing.

The event formed part of The Fortunate Organisation’s Regional Mental Health and Wellness Summit Series, a national initiative promoting healthier workplaces, stronger leadership and reduced stigma around mental health.

A highlight was a keynote address by Oceans Umhlanga Development CEO Brian Mpono, who encouraged delegates to prioritise their wellbeing while managing the demands of leadership.

Posing the question “Who is on call for you?” he urged attendees to recognise the warning signs of stress and burnout and know when to seek support.

Specialist psychiatrist Dr Bonginkosi Mafuze reinforced the message, saying good mental health is not the absence of stress but the ability to manage challenges in a healthy and sustainable way.

Virgin Active Ballito added a practical element with a wellness reset session focused on mindfulness and breathing techniques to improve focus and emotional regulation.

A panel discussion facilitated by Durban Small Business Podcast host Luke Holden explored burnout, workplace wellness, leadership pressures and healthy lifestyle choices. Panellists included Mfundokazi Xokomfu-Saba of Dube TradePort, clinical dietitian Lwazi Nzama of KwaDukuza Private Hospital and optometrist Andile Peterson, who highlighted the importance of routine eye examinations as part of overall wellbeing.

Organisers said the summit aimed to encourage open conversations around mental health while promoting practical solutions for individuals and organisations.