The summary of the webinar that aimed to:
• Introduce the Wellness Wheel framework as a dynamic, multi-dimensional tool for workplace wellness.
• Highlight the transformation from a "sickness care" model to a "wellness culture" approach.
• Equip attendees with actionable tools and insights to integrate wellness into organisational strategy.
• Foster engagement and collaboration on workplace wellness across South Africa.
The Key Highlights:
1. Opening Remarks by George Marx, WWASA Board Chairperson
• Emphasised the increasing importance of workplace wellness in a post-pandemic world.
• Introduced the Wellness Wheel as a comprehensive framework addressing physical, mental, emotional, and organisational wellness.
• Stressed the need for organisations to align wellness initiatives with budget constraints and strategic goals.
2. Keynote by Elmarie Jooste, Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist
• Delivered a detailed presentation on the Wellness Wheel’s eight dimensions (Physical, Emotional, Social, Financial, Spiritual, Occupational, Environmental, and Intellectual wellness).
• Shared research findings demonstrating the impact of wellness programs on employee engagement and organisational culture.
• Highlighted the shift from traditional wellness programs (e.g., health screenings, fitness initiatives) to holistic approaches fostering a caring corporate culture.
• Emphasised measuring the success of interventions and aligning them with employee preferences.
3. Tools and Resources Presented
• A toolkit including diagnostic questionnaires, templates, and resources to assess and implement wellness strategies.
• Access to a database of wellness experts and service providers for tailored interventions.
• Plans for a centralised system to track wellness activities, measure outcomes, and generate integrated reports for stakeholders.
4. Discussion on Broader Impact
• Addressed the role of workplace wellness in supporting families and communities.
• Discussed leveraging workplace initiatives to promote societal health and well-being, starting with employees as key influencers.
5. Q&A and Closing Remarks by Chris Luyt, WWASA Chief Executive Officer
• Questions focused on extending wellness programs to communities, managing occupational wellness, and ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Speakers reiterated the importance of starting small, measuring impact, and fostering leadership buy-in.
• Chris Luyt introduced WWASA’s plans for its formal launch in March 2025 and encouraged ongoing collaboration.
Feedback Request:
Attendee Input Needed on the Following:
• Effectiveness of the Wellness Wheel framework and toolkit.
• Suggestions for improving workplace wellness initiatives.
• Specific challenges organisations face in implementing wellness strategies.
Attendees were encouraged to complete the feedback questionnaire and share additional insights directly with the WWASA team.
Next Steps:
• Incorporate feedback into upcoming WWASA initiatives and tools.
• Prepare for the formal launch of WWASA in March 2025.
We will appreciate you answering the questions in the 3 minute Climate Study : [ Ссылка ]
