The Global Wellness Summit: A Catalyst for Change in the Wellness Industry
October 20, 2024, 4:16 am
Location: Finland, Mainland Finland, Oulu
Employees: 201-500
Founded date: 2013
Total raised: $239.16M
The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) is more than just a conference; it’s a movement. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Old Course Hotel in St Andrews, Scotland, from November 4-7, 2024, this year’s summit promises to be a melting pot of innovation, inspiration, and inclusivity. With a focus on equity and new ideas, the GWS is carving a path for the future of wellness.
The GWS is a lighthouse in the vast ocean of the wellness economy, which is valued at a staggering $5.6 trillion. It gathers visionaries, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are eager to shape the future of wellness. This year, the spotlight shines on aspiring entrepreneurs and scholarship recipients, who embody the spirit of change.
At the heart of this year’s summit are two unique initiatives: the Susie Ellis Scholarship for Equity in Wellness and the Shark Tank of Wellness student competition. These programs are designed to bring fresh perspectives and diverse voices to the table. They are the seeds of innovation, ready to sprout into new ideas that can transform the wellness landscape.
The Susie Ellis Scholarship is named after the GWI and GWS chair and CEO, a champion for equity in the wellness industry. This scholarship opens doors for individuals who may not have the financial means to attend the summit. It’s a bridge to opportunity. This year, over 300 applications poured in from more than 60 countries, a testament to the growing demand for inclusivity in wellness.
The scholarship recipients are a diverse group, each with a unique story. Cida Ghosn from Australia is an architect focused on affordable housing and sustainable design. Her research aims to integrate health and wellbeing strategies into real estate. Linda Kirk from the UK runs the Just for Women Centre, providing support for women and girls affected by trauma. Anna Petrova from Ukraine is a visionary entrepreneur, recognized for her efforts in building an entrepreneurial culture. Michelle Saudan, based in Dubai and Zimbabwe, is dedicated to creating safe healing spaces in Southern Africa. These individuals are not just recipients; they are change-makers.
In addition to the scholarship, the Shark Tank of Wellness competition offers a platform for budding entrepreneurs. This year marks its eighth iteration, and it continues to be a launchpad for innovative ideas. Students present their business concepts in a high-stakes environment, akin to a gladiatorial arena. The competition not only awards cash prizes but also invaluable networking opportunities with industry leaders.
The finalists for this year’s competition are a testament to creativity and ingenuity. Evi Vermeêren from Belgium is developing an AI-driven yoga app called Yogism, designed to enhance home practice. Sofia Sanchez from Atlanta has created Bond-Sai, a product that connects loved ones through biometric feedback. Shima Solati from Detroit is working on Together, a platform that empowers individuals with mobility impairments. These projects are not just ideas; they are solutions to real-world problems.
The GWS is a confluence of ideas, where the old meets the new. It’s a place where traditional wellness practices intersect with cutting-edge technology. The summit is not just about discussing trends; it’s about shaping them. The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) plays a crucial role in this ecosystem, providing research and insights that guide the industry.
As the wellness economy continues to grow, the need for diversity and inclusion becomes more pressing. The GWS recognizes this and actively seeks to amplify underrepresented voices. The Susie Ellis Scholarship is a prime example of this commitment. It’s a reminder that wellness should be accessible to all, not just a privileged few.
The summit also serves as a platform for the latest trends and innovations in wellness. Attendees can expect discussions on topics ranging from mental health to sustainable practices. The GWS is a crystal ball, offering glimpses into the future of wellness. It’s where ideas are born, nurtured, and set free into the world.
In a world where wellness is often commodified, the GWS stands out as a beacon of hope. It champions the idea that wellness is not just a product; it’s a way of life. The summit fosters a sense of community, bringing together individuals who share a common goal: to improve the wellbeing of people everywhere.
As the countdown to the 2024 Global Wellness Summit begins, excitement is palpable. The stage is set for a gathering that promises to be transformative. With a focus on equity, innovation, and collaboration, the GWS is poised to make waves in the wellness industry.
In conclusion, the Global Wellness Summit is more than an event; it’s a catalyst for change. It empowers individuals, celebrates diversity, and inspires new ideas. As the wellness economy continues to evolve, the GWS will remain at the forefront, guiding the way toward a healthier, more inclusive future. The summit is not just a meeting of minds; it’s a movement that will shape the future of wellness for generations to come.
The GWS is a lighthouse in the vast ocean of the wellness economy, which is valued at a staggering $5.6 trillion. It gathers visionaries, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are eager to shape the future of wellness. This year, the spotlight shines on aspiring entrepreneurs and scholarship recipients, who embody the spirit of change.
At the heart of this year’s summit are two unique initiatives: the Susie Ellis Scholarship for Equity in Wellness and the Shark Tank of Wellness student competition. These programs are designed to bring fresh perspectives and diverse voices to the table. They are the seeds of innovation, ready to sprout into new ideas that can transform the wellness landscape.
The Susie Ellis Scholarship is named after the GWI and GWS chair and CEO, a champion for equity in the wellness industry. This scholarship opens doors for individuals who may not have the financial means to attend the summit. It’s a bridge to opportunity. This year, over 300 applications poured in from more than 60 countries, a testament to the growing demand for inclusivity in wellness.
The scholarship recipients are a diverse group, each with a unique story. Cida Ghosn from Australia is an architect focused on affordable housing and sustainable design. Her research aims to integrate health and wellbeing strategies into real estate. Linda Kirk from the UK runs the Just for Women Centre, providing support for women and girls affected by trauma. Anna Petrova from Ukraine is a visionary entrepreneur, recognized for her efforts in building an entrepreneurial culture. Michelle Saudan, based in Dubai and Zimbabwe, is dedicated to creating safe healing spaces in Southern Africa. These individuals are not just recipients; they are change-makers.
In addition to the scholarship, the Shark Tank of Wellness competition offers a platform for budding entrepreneurs. This year marks its eighth iteration, and it continues to be a launchpad for innovative ideas. Students present their business concepts in a high-stakes environment, akin to a gladiatorial arena. The competition not only awards cash prizes but also invaluable networking opportunities with industry leaders.
The finalists for this year’s competition are a testament to creativity and ingenuity. Evi Vermeêren from Belgium is developing an AI-driven yoga app called Yogism, designed to enhance home practice. Sofia Sanchez from Atlanta has created Bond-Sai, a product that connects loved ones through biometric feedback. Shima Solati from Detroit is working on Together, a platform that empowers individuals with mobility impairments. These projects are not just ideas; they are solutions to real-world problems.
The GWS is a confluence of ideas, where the old meets the new. It’s a place where traditional wellness practices intersect with cutting-edge technology. The summit is not just about discussing trends; it’s about shaping them. The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) plays a crucial role in this ecosystem, providing research and insights that guide the industry.
As the wellness economy continues to grow, the need for diversity and inclusion becomes more pressing. The GWS recognizes this and actively seeks to amplify underrepresented voices. The Susie Ellis Scholarship is a prime example of this commitment. It’s a reminder that wellness should be accessible to all, not just a privileged few.
The summit also serves as a platform for the latest trends and innovations in wellness. Attendees can expect discussions on topics ranging from mental health to sustainable practices. The GWS is a crystal ball, offering glimpses into the future of wellness. It’s where ideas are born, nurtured, and set free into the world.
In a world where wellness is often commodified, the GWS stands out as a beacon of hope. It champions the idea that wellness is not just a product; it’s a way of life. The summit fosters a sense of community, bringing together individuals who share a common goal: to improve the wellbeing of people everywhere.
As the countdown to the 2024 Global Wellness Summit begins, excitement is palpable. The stage is set for a gathering that promises to be transformative. With a focus on equity, innovation, and collaboration, the GWS is poised to make waves in the wellness industry.
In conclusion, the Global Wellness Summit is more than an event; it’s a catalyst for change. It empowers individuals, celebrates diversity, and inspires new ideas. As the wellness economy continues to evolve, the GWS will remain at the forefront, guiding the way toward a healthier, more inclusive future. The summit is not just a meeting of minds; it’s a movement that will shape the future of wellness for generations to come.