The Wellbeing Project
Stories from the Hearth
Hearth Summit BOGOTÁ Session Featuring:
Eleanor Allen
CEO, Catapult for Change
🌍 Colorado, USA
In Bogotá, Eleanor Allen, CEO of Catapult for Change, explores how to move from burnout to work-life balance and integration and how this impacts worker wellbeing and retention in companies. Watch the session (in English).
Stories from the Hearth
Hearth Summit BOGOTÁ Session Featuring:
Juan Pablo López Gross
Innovation Senior Specialist, Inter-American Development Bank BID Lab
🌍 Washington, D.C., USA
Romina Mendoza
Senior Specialist, McKinsey and Co.
🌍 San José, Costa Rica
Ricardo Paz
People and Culture Elder, The Wellbeing Project
🌍 Bogotá, Colombia
In Bogotá, Juan Pablo López Gross from the Interamerican Development Bank Lab (BID Lab) presented the findings of new research conducted with The Wellbeing Project on the mental health of high-impact social entrepreneurs in Latin America, ultimately sharing the business case for wellbeing: if the entrepreneurs are doing well, the ventures will do better. Ricardo Paz from The Wellbeing Project provided additional insights from research from the social sector on how organizational wellbeing inspires welldoing. Romina Mendoza shared analysis on organizational wellbeing, employee work-life balance, and mental health from McKinsey & Co’s global study. Watch the session (in Spanish).
Stories from the Hearth
Hearth Summit BOGOTÁ Session Featuring:
Gaby Arenas de Meneses
Director, Fundación TAAP; Ashoka Fellow; Co-chair, Catalyst 2030 Latam
🌍 Bogotá, Colombia
In Bogotá, Gaby Arenas de Meneses, director of the TAAP Foundation, Ashoka Fellow and Co-chair of Catalyst 2030 Latam, invites us to explore how social wellbeing influences our individual wellbeing, and what role companies can play in improving living conditions in their communities. Watch the session (in Spanish).
Stories from the Hearth
Publicación invitada de:
Ricardo Paz
People & Culture Elder, The Wellbeing Project
🌍 Bogotá, Colombia
The Wellbeing Project, junto con ocho organizaciones de todo el mundo, el Instituto Tavistock y el Center for Healthy Minds estuvieron cinco años investigando el valor del bienestar organizacional y cómo fomentarlo.
Aprendieron que cualquier organización, pública o privada, puede beneficiarse de promover el bienestar organizacional: mejora el desempeño de los empleados, lo que se traduce en un mejor desempeño organizacional.
Además, todos estuvieron de acuerdo en que era menos costoso invertir en el bienestar organizacional que no hacerlo.
Cultivar el bienestar organizacional es un proceso continuo, dinámico y de largo plazo, pero el valor agregado para los empleados, su organización y su comunidad vale la pena.
Ricardo (izquierda) habla en Hearth Summit Bogotá, compartiendo los hallazgos del Programa Exploratorio Organizacional (OEP) de The Wellbeing Project.
En mayo, tuve el placer de presentar en el Hearth Summit Bogotá, que se centró en el bienestar y los negocios sostenibles. En este evento, la sostenibilidad se exploró de tres maneras:
Trabajo sostenible: centrado en el bienestar de los empleados y el balance vida-trabajo
Negocio sostenible: centrado en la producción y el consumo sostenibles dentro de las empresas
Ecosistemas sostenibles: centrándose en cómo las empresas pueden tener impactos sociales y medioambientales positivos
La audiencia estaba formada por cientos de líderes del sector empresarial: directores ejecutivos, gerentes, expertos y otros se unieron en el Hearth Summit para tomar medidas colectivas y cambiar la cultura corporativa hacia una de bienestar y desempeño.
Me sentí agradecido de compartir los aprendizajes del sector social sobre cómo al promover el bienestar dentro de las organizaciones se conduce a un mayor desempeño.
No soy el único que piensa en la importancia del bienestar de los empleados: la Organización Mundial de la Salud ha clasificado el burnout como un problema de salud ocupacional dada la magnitud de casos presentados. Múltiples estudios en todo el mundo muestran un aumento del burnout en organizaciones de todo tipo. Gallup ha estimado las pérdidas globales por ausentismo, rotación y agotamiento en 322.000 millones de dólares. ¡Mil millones!
La situación es clara: las organizaciones deben centrar su atención en el bienestar de sus empleados. Pero ¿cómo pueden hacer esto?
En el Hearth Summit Bogotá, compartí los aprendizajes de un Programa Exploratorio Organizacional (OEP, por sus siglas en inglés) de cinco años que The Wellbeing Project cocreó con ocho organizaciones de todo el mundo: de Brasil, Canadá, China, Egipto, Mozambique, Pakistán, Senegal y Estados Unidos.
Con el Instituto Tavistock de Relaciones Humanas y el Centro para Mentes Saludables proporcionando apoyo en investigación y metodología, buscamos trabajar con estas ocho organizaciones para desarrollar un marco efectivo para apoyar el bienestar organizacional de manera participativa, basado en evidencia empírica.
Los aprendizajes de estas ocho organizaciones sociales pueden ser útiles para organizaciones de otros sectores, tanto públicos como privados, ya que comparten un mensaje común: el bienestar de los empleados de cualquier organización lleva a un mejor desempeño y, por lo tanto, a un mejor desempeño de las organizaciones y del ecosistema que las rodea. En resumen: el bienestar inspira el desempeño.
Pero ¿cómo pueden las organizaciones crear una cultura de bienestar? Compartí tres aprendizajes clave de OEP con agentes de cambio en Bogotá:
1. Crea tu propia definición y visión de bienestar.
La definición de bienestar organizacional puede ser muy diferente para una organización que para otra, así como a nivel individual. Por esta razón, es relevante hacer una definición de manera participativa con todos o la mayoría de los involucrados. Esto significa que será un proceso lento, de largo plazo, con una visión estratégica, de acuerdo con los retos, objetivos y entorno de cada organización.
2. Dar pequeños pasos, llegarás lejos.
De esta forma, es necesario centrarse en unas primeras y pequeñas acciones para avanzar poco a poco en un plan de trabajo que evidencie avances y refuerce la evolución de la organización. La idea es que, a la hora de tomar decisiones estratégicas, se tengan en cuenta las necesidades de las personas involucradas en todos los niveles de la organización.
3. Encuentra el “camino del medio”.
A veces, una organización se centra únicamente en lograr su misión y objetivos. En el otro extremo, existe la posibilidad de estar demasiado centrado en el bienestar de las personas. Las organizaciones que están muy enfocadas en su misión a menudo tienen una alta rotación de personal, bajos niveles de compromiso, hipersensibilidad a la desadaptación organizacional y una alta frecuencia de casos con burnout. En el otro extremo, en aquellos demasiado enfocados en el bienestar de las personas, hay dificultad para lograr la misión de la organización, las necesidades individuales están constantemente insatisfechas, sus responsabilidades no están claras y su energía se consume en tareas innecesarias.
Una tercera vía, una vía intermedia, se compone de un entorno en el que las personas están inspiradas por la misión y la estructura de la organización, se identifican claramente sus habilidades y competencias individuales, se tienen claras las responsabilidades de sus funciones y se les reconoce por sus contribuciones profesionales.
La conclusión
A través de la investigación de OEP, aprendimos que generar la capacidad de bienestar organizacional es un proceso de gestión del cambio de cuatro pasos:
Definición de objetivos,
Cocreándolos con todos los miembros,
Implementación, y
Aprendizaje constante.
Es un proceso lento, sin soluciones rápidas ni un enfoque lineal. Lo más importante es la dirección de los cambios más que los resultados inmediatos. Es importante que los líderes den el ejemplo también, y vimos tres factores fundamentales en la generación de esta capacidad de bienestar organizacional: Liderazgo, Comunicación y Mentalidad de Crecimiento.
¿Y la última pieza del rompecabezas? Estas ocho organizaciones sociales descubrieron que desarrollar su capacidad de bienestar organizacional era menos costoso que no hacerlo.
Como dijo uno de los participantes del Programa de Desarrollo Interior de The Wellbeing Project: “Si no tienes bienestar en tu personal, ¿cómo puedes proporcionar bienestar en tu comunidad? Nadie puede dar lo que no tiene”.
Lo mismo ocurre con su organización. Ya sea que trabajes en una organización sin fines de lucro, una empresa o cualquier otro tipo de organización, el mensaje puede ser el mismo:
El bienestar inspira el desempeño: si estamos bien, lo haremos mejor.
Ricardo (left) speaks at Hearth Summit Bogotá, sharing findings from The Wellbeing Project’s Organizational Exploratory Program (OEP).
In May, I had the pleasure of speaking at the Hearth Summit Bogotá, which focused on wellbeing and sustainable business. At this summit, sustainability was explored in three ways:
Sustainable work: focusing on employee wellbeing and work-life balance
Sustainable business: focusing on sustainable production and consumption within businesses
Sustainable ecosystems: focusing on how businesses can have positive social and environmental impacts
The audience was filled with hundreds of leaders from the business sector: CEOs, managers, experts, and others joined together at the Hearth to take collective action and shift corporate culture towards one of wellbeing and welldoing.
I was grateful to share learnings from the social sector about how promoting wellbeing within organizations leads to greater welldoing.
I’m not the only one thinking about the importance of employee wellbeing: the World Health Organization has classified Extreme Burnout as an occupational health problem given the magnitude of cases presented. Multiple studies around the world show an increase in extreme burnout in organizations of all kinds. Gallup has estimated global losses from absenteeism, turnover, and burnout at $322 billion. Billion!
The situation is clear: organizations must turn their attention to the wellbeing of their employees. But how can they do this?
At Hearth Summit Bogotá, I shared learnings from a five-year Organizational Exploratory Program (OEP) that The Wellbeing Project co-created with eight organizations from around the world – from Brazil, Canada, China, Eygpt, Mozambique, Pakistan, Senegal, and the United States.
With the Tavistock Institute of Human Relations and the Center for Healthy Minds providing research and methodology support, we sought to work with these eight organizations to develop an effective framework to support organizational wellbeing in a participatory way, based on empirical evidence.
The learnings from these eight social organizations can be useful for organizations in other sectors, both public and private, as they share a common message: the wellbeing of the employees of any organization leads to their improved performance and, therefore, the improved performance of the organizations and the ecosystem that surrounds them. In short: wellbeing inspires welldoing.
But how can organizations create a culture of wellbeing? I shared three key learnings from OEP with changemakers in Bogota:
1. Create your own definition and vision of wellbeing.
Defining organizational wellbeing can be very different for one organization than for another, as well as at the individual level. For this reason, it is relevant to make a definition in a participatory way with all or most of those involved. This means it will be a slow, long-term process, with a long-term strategic vision, according to the challenges, objectives and environment of each organization.
2. Take small steps – they go far.
In this way, it is necessary to focus on a few first and small actions to advance little by little in a work plan that evidences progress and reinforces the evolution of the organization. The idea is that, when making strategic decisions, the needs of the people involved at all levels in the organization are considered.
3. Find the “middle way”.
Sometimes, an organization is focused solely on achieving its mission and goals. At the other extreme, there is the possibility of being too focused on people’s well-being. Organizations that are very focused on their mission often have high staff turnover, low levels of commitment, hypersensitivity to organizational maladjustment, and a high frequency of cases with extreme burnout. At the other extreme, in those too focused on people’s wellbeing, there is difficulty in achieving the organization’s mission, individual needs are constantly unsatisfied, their responsibilities are unclear and their energy is consumed in unnecessary tasks.
A third way, a middle way, is made up of an environment where people are guided by the mission and structure of the organization, their individual skills and competencies are clearly identified, the responsibilities of their roles are clear, and they are recognized for their professional contributions.
The Bottom Line
Through the OEP research, we learned that generating organizational wellbeing capacity is a four-step change management process:
Defining objectives,
Co-creating them with all members,
Implementing, and
And constantly learning.
It is a slow process, without quick solutions or a linear approach. What is most important is the direction of changes rather than the immediate results. Leadership by example is also important, and we saw three fundamental factors in generating organizational wellbeing capacity: Leadership, Communication and Growth Mindset.
And the final piece of the puzzle? These eight social organizations found that developing their wellbeing capacity was less expensive than not doing so.
As one of the participants of The Wellbeing Project’s Inner Development Program said, “If you don’t have wellbeing in your staff, how can you provide wellbeing in your community? No one can give what they don’t have.”
The same is true for your organization. Whether you work in a non-profit, a business, or any other type of organization, the message can be the same:
Wellbeing Inspires Welldoing: if we are well, we’ll do it better.
Stories from the Hearth
Interview with:
Daniel Truran
Director General, ebbf (ethical business building for the future)
🌍 Madrid, Spain
Presented by BMW Colombia — partner of Hearth Summit Bogotá 2024
Daniel Truran is a renowned motivational speaker, impact strategist and innovator, with over two decades of experience dedicated to co-creating some of the most influential impact communities. His passion lies in inspiring and cultivating communities and movements capable of creating a more prosperous, sustainable and just future. He is the General Director of ebbf.org (ethical business building the future), a B Corp Ambassador in Europe, and a Partner at NOW.Partners.
At Hearth Summit Bogotá, Daniel was a keynote speaker, offering a closing session on conscious leadership in the age of modern business. Watch his reflections below (in English).
Stories from the Hearth
Interview with:
Gaby Arenas de Meneses
Founder, Fundación TAAP; Co-Chair, Catalyst 2030 Latam
🌍 Bogotá, Colombia
Presented by BMW Colombia — partner of Hearth Summit Bogotá 2024
As host of the Hearth Summit Bogotá, Gaby Arenas de Meneses, Founder, Fundación TAAP; Co-Chair, Catalyst 2030 Latam, gathered changemakers from across Latin America and Spanish-speaking North America to collectively discover the intersection of wellbeing and sustainable business. Over two days, she led participants on a journey to understand sustainability at every level of business: from work-life balance and employee wellbeing; to sustainable production and consumption; to positive social and environmental impact. Watch her reflections on the event below (in Spanish).
How does wellbeing “work”? What can we learn from ancient wisdom and contemporary research? The regional Hearth Summits are on a journey of head and heart — fueling a curiosity for the science of wellbeing!
Around the Hearth, leading academics, researchers, elders, topic experts, and holders of traditional wisdom serve as guides to:
Bring intellectual depth to the transformative experience of the Hearth Summit
Encourage a holistic understanding of wellbeing that respects different types of knowledge
Share best practices, methodologies, and case studies
Unite qualitative and quantitative sources of knowledge
Spark new, multi-disciplinary, and cross-cultural ideas and innovations
With plenaries, collaborative dialogues, workshops, and interactive sessions, changemakers are equipped with key knowledge about how wellbeing works and why — helping to inform their work as drivers of social transformation.
Discover what changemakers are learning at the Hearths around the world. For more research on wellbeing, visit our research hub.
Paulo Freire
WITH PROF. DR. TANIA SINGER
In Brussels, Prof. Dr. Tania Singer, a world expert on empathy and compassion, led changemakers on a journey from inner work to a more caring economy by explaining how motivation psychology and neurobiology can inform economic models. In fostering pro-social behaviour, she explained, we can enable the impactful collaboration needed to solve our world’s biggest problems, such as climate change, social injustice, and economic inequality. The research offers decision- and policy-makers a new look at how the individual and the collective interact in order to create more sustainable macro-economic environments.
WITH DR. OLGA KLIMECKI
In Brussels, Dr. Olga Klimecki (pictured above right), Senior Researcher at the University of Geneva, spoke on two panels to bring a neuroscience perspective to conversations on healing and peacebuilding. Citing a new research project from the Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, she explained the growing understanding of the role emotions play in conflict resolution. Through a mix of behavioural and neuroscientific experiments with field studies in conflict areas, the work seeks to aid and inform peacebuilding and diplomacy efforts.
WITH DR. RICHARD J. DAVIDSON
In Bogotá, Dr. Richard J. Davidson from the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison shared his pioneering research on the neural bases of emotion and emotional style and how they relate to inner and organizational wellbeing. His work explores how brain function is related to wellbeing and mental health, particularly through the study of contemplative practices such as meditation. Through neuroimaging and behavioural techniques, his research captures the neuroplastic changes that occur and thereby enhance emotional resilience, reduce stress, and promote positive health outcomes.
SESSION AT Hearth Summit São Paulo
In São Paulo, Dr. Raquel Tatar, Chief Scientific Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Center for Healthy Minds, shared the dimensions of wellbeing as seen through a neuroscientific lens. Take a deep dive into how the brain works and influences wellbeing, as well as the emerging Healthy Minds Framework. Watch the session (in Portuguese).
WITH ALESSANE SECK
In Dakar-Thiès, art therapist Alassane Seck shared learnings from Fann Hospital, where the Moussa Diop psychiatric clinic is home to Senegal’s first arts therapy programme. Alassane opened the L’Atelier d’EXpression (“The Expression Workshop”) in 1999 aiming to provide holistic care to the clinic’s patients. Engaging with the arts can help alleviate symptoms of many psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety, schizophrenia, cognitive impairment and dementia, and autism, in an alternative, non-pharmaceutical approach.
In the specific case of L’Atelier d’EXpression, Alessane explained that only does the programme help patients self-reflect, understand their emotions, express themselves, it also helps shift cultural attitudes towards mental illness in Senegalese society. The participants’ art creations are also often exhibited in various forums and exhibitions, including the regional summit hosted by Tostan, promoting social inclusion and empathy while sharing the story of mental health with wider audiences.
WITH RUBAIYA AHMAD
In Dhaka, animal welfare activist and educator Rubaiya Ahmad led a workshop on nutritional sciences for changemakers, explaining the physiological relationship between diet and mental health. Conversations about inner wellbeing are incomplete without considering one’s physical wellbeing, she said, as she covered topics such as nutrition, physical exercise, and emotional relationships with food.
As the founder of Bangladesh’s first vegan eatery, The Bangu Vegan, she also shared the human and environmental benefits of eating plant-based foods. She also explained the cultural relevance of plant-based diets in Bangladesh, noting the presence of vegan and vegetarian elements in many authentic Bengali dishes.
WITH BRAC INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
In Dhaka, a team from BRAC Institute for Educational Development (BRAC IED) introduced changemakers of all ages to Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL). In the hybrid session mixing instruction and interactive play, participants learned the basics of SEL and how its five core competencies — self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making — relate to fostering wellbeing individually, collectively, and in the workplace. Through games and reflective conversations, the session also looked at how these competencies are taught, exercised, and perceived in Bangladeshi culture.
The regional Hearth Summits gather changemakers from a diverse range of cultures, backgrounds, and fields to explore the intersection of wellbeing and social change. The emotional and intellectual journey of a Hearth Summit inspires us not only to think about the presence of wellbeing in our lives — but to feel it too. We are offered a space to co-create global understandings of what wellbeing is, all the while believing strongly that wellbeing has no one true definition. It must be lived to be understood — and each of us has our own way of being well.
Throughout the regional Hearth Summits, changemakers are invited to explore how they can get in touch with and embody their wellbeing through a variety of practices. With options like physical movement, philosophical explorations, traditions and rituals, and evidence-based approaches, the regional Hearth Summits invite everyone to be well in their own unique way.
Explore the different ways the regional Hearth Summits are encouraging us to look inward and cultivate a sense of inner wellbeing.
Want more ideas for how you can practice wellbeing? You can also find other wellbeing tips here and tell us about your wellbeing practices.
In Dhaka, participants were invited to explore the therapeutic benefits of painting, especially with bright colours, as part of a wellbeing workshop on the emotional boost of light and colours.
In Nairobi, artist Lindsay Dawn Obath guided participants in a self-portrait painting session, inviting them to reflect deeply on their inner worlds and identities, all the while playfully enjoying the simple act of painting.
Changemakers in Dakar-Thiès tried their hand at traditional African basket weaving led by IMADI, who taught them techniques that have been passed down for generations, from grandmothers to mothers to daughters.
In Dhaka, the workshop “Life is an Art” encouraged changemakers to slow down, pause, and enjoy a mindful moment before, in silence, using the arts to express their emotions and reflect on life experiences.
In Nairobi, changemakers took time to delight in the colorful art of floral bouquet design with a workshop guided by Floral Design Studio Kenya, a training studio led by three generations of family florists in Nairobi. The best part: taking your creation home to remember the extraordinary summit!
Awa Fall, who attended Tostan’s training programmes during her incarceration in the Thiès prison and then went on to establish her own tie-dying business, taught changemakers how to dye fabric. With Awa’s expert guidance, participants left the Summit with a hand-dyed scarf, a souvenir of their wellbeing practice.
In TheMerode’s “Zen Room”, Maïté Herkins guided guests through a therapeutic sound bath during session breaks during The Wellbeing Summit Brussels.
Harp therapist Alix Collin brought the beautiful, healing presence of the harp to The Wellbeing Summit Brussels, even inviting participants to sit against the harp to feel its healing vibrations as she played.
Reggie Hubbard created a harmonious blend of sound by performing a crystal bowls concert amidst the natural melodies of nature thriving at the Omega Institute.
Complimenting the natural soundtrack of birds chirping and leaves rustling in the gardens of Bangla Academy, Swayambhu led participants through a tranquil journey of sound and breath.
Amid thought-provoking talks, captivating art performances, and energizing social activities, the regional Hearth Summits remind us there is always time to slow down and notice our breath.
Find your own breath with our guided meditations here.
SESSION AT Hearth Summit São Paulo
In São Paulo, Daniel Calmanowitz, Vice President of Lama Gangchen Foundation for the Culture of Peace, shared the wisdom of meditation with changemakers and how it can impact individual and collective wellbeing. As a disciple of the Tibetan Buddhist master H.E. Lama Gangchen Rinpoche, a Buddhist practitioner since 1987, and an ordained monk since 2011, Daniel offered profound wisdom from the Buddhist tradition in a cross-cultural dialogue at Hearth Summit São Paulo. Watch the session (in Portuguese).
Taking in the pristine setting of the Omega Institute‘s campus in upstate New York, changemakers enjoyed guided nature walks throughout the gathering. Delegates explored the natural curiosities of the 250-acre campus, filled with gardens, hiking trails, and a lakefront, which invited them to imagine a new season of life for themselves — and the world.
Nestled in the gardens of Tamarind Brasserie, Hearth Summit Nairobi offered changemakers a serene retreat into nature. The forested space not only provided space for changemakers to immerse themselves in nature, but also to interact with some new friends: cats, hares, tortoises, and monkeys regularly roamed through the space throughout the event.
In Dhaka, participants could try on a green thumb by planting seedlings of trees and flowers at a gardening station. Within the gardens of Bangla Academy, a serene oasis of vegetation in the heart of the bustling streets of Dhaka, the Summit allowed changemakers to connect with the Earth, create beauty, and strengthen local biodiversity.
Shamima Akhtar Tulee, the first Bangladeshi woman to earn the Shotokan Karate Blackbelt, got changemakers moving in an invigorating chair workout in Dhaka, perfectly adapting movements for all types of abilities and experiences.
In Dakar-Thiès, changemakers discovered capoeira, a Brazilian martial arts practice, with Grupo Africa Capoeira – Ilha de Gorée. In between sessions and discussions, the opportunity to move with a unique fusion of different cultures brought fresh energy and power to the afternoon.
At many Hearth Summits, gentle movements like yoga and stretching invite everyone to turn inwards and develop a stronger connection with their physical selves. Here in Bogotá, a secluded rooftop space for yoga created an extra special moment for mind, body, and soul.
Since the dawn of humanity, people have gathered around fires to be in community by sharing rituals and practices, such as dances. Our Hearths are no different!
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
LAO TZU
In Brussels, Buddhist monk Bart Weetjens guided changemakers through a silent, mindful lunch. Offering prayer and gratitude for the food before them, changemakers ate together in silence, savouring the taste and nourishment of the meal along with the tranquillity of the moment spent together. A delicious moment for body and soul!
“A little nonsense now and then is cherished by the wisest men.”
Roald Dahl
Who says playtime is just for children? In Nairobi, time for fun and games was scheduled intentionally throughout the program to create space for joy, fun, and bonding among participants. Different games and activities created moments of lightness amidst deep conversations and interactive workshops — a delightful reminder of the value of creating balance in the world of social change.
Valerie Gaudreault Guilbert
LETS REACH OUT
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“During these stressful times, loneliness can be hard for a lot of people and staying home often means feeling isolated. To break this cycle and protect our wellbeing, contacting a family member, a friend or a mental health professional can help us go through this. Let’s reach out.”
bonnie browN
APART YET CLOSER THAN EVER
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“Heading into our sixth week of lockdown in New Zealand I’ve been feeling physically distant from those around me, yet closer than ever mentally. From waving to my neighbours from my balcony, to catching up with childhood friends. When we leave lockdown it’ll be with a new sense of community, hope and optimism.”
Bee Harris
FIND YOUR PEACE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“This moment in time has heightened the anxieties of many people around the world. Now more than ever, it’s important that we look inward and focus on the things that bring us joy and peace.”
See more from Bee here
Chris Andri Lourens
THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“This artwork was created as an art piece to remind people to focus on the positive things. It also has a colouring book version which can be downloaded and coloured in for those who need some at-home entertainment.”
See more from Chris-Zandri here
natalia cardona puerta
SUPPORT SYSTEMS GO THE DISTANCE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“Even though social distancing has pulled us physically apart, the emotional bonds that we share with our loved ones are still intact and our support system will always be there to help, no matter what. In the meantime, let’s gather in a telepathic embrace, let’s hear our voices over the phone, and let’s read our words of joy & concern through letters. We will hug, and look at each other in the eyes again, and when that day comes, our connection will be stronger than ever.”
See more from Natalia here
Lisa Vollrath
SPREAD COMPASSION
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“I see nerves getting frayed, from all the staying home, and little inconveniences of our new day to day life. I always try to remember to spread a little laughter when I go out, even if I’m not feeling particularly happy. The world isn’t all about me, and it’s good to have a little compassion for the folks around us right now.”
See more from Lisa here
Danica Ricciardi
TAKE CARE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“Protect each other and be kind!”
lindsay-bonavolonta
MENTAL HEALTH
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“I, like all essential workers, have recently been given an important task; to be the face of resilience during this pandemic. However, while we spend much of our time helping others it can be easy to forget about our own mental health needs as we navigate this new normal.”
See more from Lindsay here
Kahfi Azhary
STAY HEALTHY STAY STRONG
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
This poster has a message for all citizens of the world to remain healthy and strong in the fight against the plague covid19. stay safe, stay home, stay healthy, stay strong.
CAM WATTS
COVID COMPASSION
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
We can’t offer each other our hands, but we can cultivate our compassion garden and be there for each other in other ways during these trialing times. Compassion for the sick, the fearful, the jobless, the old, the young, and the alone. We are all being challenged in different ways right now and compassion for each other is of the utmost importance.
LISA SALDIVAR
KINDNESS NOT CANCELLED
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
A demonstration of kindness from communities around the world shown to inspire a contagion of kindness in these difficult times.
RAUL GUTIERREZ
STAY MINDFUL
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
In the current Covid-19 crisis thinking on the future just makes me experience much anxiety. As I currently see things, there’s no point to think about the future when a storm of uncertainty surrounds us and our lives are on hold. I think it’s time for us to stay mindful, concentrating on the present moment and tackle everyday problems in the calmest way possible. If our mind is overloaded, our capacity response will stay low which won’t allow us to progress. I suggest practicing yoga and meditation as a powerful tool to stay calm and coherent.
ELIZA WOLFSON
STAY IN TOUCH
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
In the current Covid-19 crisis thinking on the future just makes me experience much anxiety. As I currently see things, there’s no point to think about the future when a storm of uncertainty surrounds us and our lives are on hold. I think it’s time for us to stay mindful, concentrating on the present moment and tackle everyday problems in the calmest way possible. If our mind is overloaded, our capacity response will stay low which won’t allow us to progress. I suggest practicing yoga and meditation as a powerful tool to stay calm and coherent.
See more from Raul here
GIANCARLO MANCUSO
HOPE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
This poster is a symbolic expression of Hope. The color yellow is known to be the colour of hope, and happiness. All the images illustrated are used to express hope, peace, love, and the fight against COVID-19. See more from Giancarlo here
KIMBERLY ASHBY
SELF CARE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
Kimberly Marie Ashby is a Black and Native American, queer, woman artist, activist, and doctoral candidate in counseling psychology. Kimberly creates hand-cut collages through an Afrofuturist lens, using found materials to reflect marginalized people’s ability to make marvels out of the scraps they are given. Kimberly created this hand-cut collage To express the importance of self-care, particularly for Black and Brown people in the US who are being disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
SHIRIEN DAMRA
LET YOURSELF REST
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
Capitalism tries to push the idea that we need to be productive. A lot of us feel like we need to constantly hustle and be on the grind to achieve our dreams. But giving yourself time to rest and take care of yourself is a gift that can empower you. It sounds counter-intuitive, but rest ultimately allows you to be in a stronger place to tackle whatever comes your way. But we are in a global pandemic right now. It’s necessary to rest and breathe and check in with yourself!
See more from Shirien here
YASH PRADHAN
THIS TOO SHALL PASS
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“Even if you’re isolated, you’ve to remind yourself you’re not alone in this. Staying home can be uninspiring, times passes slower but remember this too shall pass.”
See more from Yash here
DAMIEN CIFELLI
JUST REMEMBER TO BREATHE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“My poster is one of a series of three original oil paintings. I used oil due to its association with portraits of important historical figures, adding gravity to the message in the poster. The idea is to insert the mask into attractive and aspirational images, representing the idea of wearing a mask as a positive thing. Each poster is based around the word breathe. Firstly – around the literal idea of being able to breathe freely by wearing a mask, secondly – allowing the planet the space to breathe by doing your part and thirdly – addressing the anxiety that comes with the unknown elements of the crisis.”
DAMIEN CIFELLI
LET THE PLANET BREATHE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“My poster is one of a series of three original oil paintings. I used oil due to its association with portraits of important historical figures, adding gravity to the message in the poster. The idea is to insert the mask into attractive and aspirational images, representing the idea of wearing a mask as a positive thing. Each poster is based around the word breathe. Firstly – around the literal idea of being able to breathe freely by wearing a mask, secondly – allowing the planet the space to breathe by doing your part and thirdly – addressing the anxiety that comes with the unknown elements of the crisis.”
damien cifelli
BREATHE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“My poster is one of a series of three original oil paintings. I used oil due to its association with portraits of important historical figures, adding gravity to the message in the poster. The idea is to insert the mask into attractive and aspirational images, representing the idea of wearing a mask as a positive thing. Each poster is based around the word breathe. Firstly – around the literal idea of being able to breathe freely by wearing a mask, secondly – allowing the planet the space to breathe by doing your part and thirdly – addressing the anxiety that comes with the unknown elements of the crisis.”
Skye Sturm
SPREAD LOVE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“I created this artwork because I wanted to celebrate all of the acts of selflessness and kindness, both big and small, that we have seen during the pandemic. But I was also seeing so much hatred and blame. I wanted to remind people to withhold judgement, to remember that we are all in this together and that a little kindness goes a long way. Even wearing a mask and maintaining distance is an act of kindness and respect to those around us. I chose the rainbow and sunshine as a bright and positive backdrop to the message – the symbol of hope, of rays of sunlight which shine through in a dark storm. I hope this message can help people to stay positive, and that it encourages everyone to spread a little love in these difficult times.”
Varshini Ramakrishnan
GOOD DAYS NOT FAR AWAY
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“It’s time to manage the voice of the Media and take control of the voices inside our heads. The media content we’ve been consuming since Covid-19 has taken a toll on our thoughts and emotions. We feel the urge to stay up to date on the current happenings and tend to incline towards negativity. This artwork is inspired by vintage advertisements, portraying the importance of a mental cleanse. Visual media like advertisements, cinema etc, have always been part of our mental growth. I visualise the voice of media to be more positive and break stereotypes around mental illness.”
María toro
mind-aware world-awake
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“If we all connect our minds and stay aware, the world will wake up. MIND AWARE- WORLD AWAKE!”
VARSHINI RAMAKRISHNAN
MIND MEDIA POSITIVITY
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“It’s time to manage the voice of the Media and take control of the voices inside our heads. The media content we’ve been consuming since Covid-19 has taken a toll on our thoughts and emotions. We feel the urge to stay up to date on the current happenings and tend to incline towards negativity. This artwork is inspired by vintage advertisements, portraying the importance of a mental cleanse. Visual media like advertisements, cinema etc, have always been part of our mental growth. I visualise the voice of media to be more positive and break stereotypes around mental illness.”
ALEJANDRO VARELA
DON’T PANIC, BE RESILIENT
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“This work riffs off the famous phrase of the Indian spiritual master Meher Baba, “Don’t worry; Be happy,” later converted into song by Bobby McFerrin in 1988. Its concise message of positivity has at times been misunderstood as careless or passive, but simplicity is powerful and mantras like these continue to be used because they encourage us during challenging times. While its difficult to be happy in the face of this crisis and the uncertainty it brings, together we can withstand the curve, flatten it, and recover- not through worry or panic, but through collaboration as a world community. With this work, I want to express a simple message for all of us: to resist fear-mongering messages and to focus on our innate human resilience.”
PACO ESPINAR
HOPE HOME
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
ANIRUDH KADAV
BREATHE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“The nearer a man comes to a calm mind, the closer he is to strength’ In my opinion, mental health is the most overlooked aspect of human nature. Seldom we give it the attention it deserves. No amount of wealth guarantees ones well being and current global scenario is a reflection of the same. At the moment, when the world is facing a, what seems to be an immortal, enemy, no amount of wealth or militia is enough to fight it. In these times, when people are forced to be at home, take a step back and reflect. As much effort is being put in maintaining and enhancing physical strength, try and focus on your inner peace as well. What makes you happy? A question, to which most of us have an answer to, but rarely do we act on it. We have always been too pre occupied with things and troubles, which now do not seem to matter as much. So let’s take a deep breathe, and focus on what is more important – YOU. Be the change you wish to see in the world. World peace, begins at Inner peace. Stay Positive. Stay Home. Stay Safe”
RUCHITA ASHOK
PRAY FOR THE WORLD
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
“The modern pandemic COVID-19 will define this era absolutely. No one who lives through will forget the pain that people are feeling now and will continue to feel for years to come. Meanwhile on the other hand this will define brotherhood, humanity, faith, strength, courage and kindness.There is always a light at the end of tunnel but while going through that darkness nobody knows if there is any, but it is the faith and hope and willpower that keeps us driving through hardships to reach the brighter side. Pray for our world, pray for all!”
RUE OLIVER
GATHER OUR POWERS
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
RAHUL JAIGADKAR
GYAN MUDRA
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“Coping with the pandemic is getting harder and harder with each passing day. With so much of information freely available to read, our mind is filled with numerous thoughts such as the lotus surrounded by dirtiest water. As the lotus produces the most beautiful lotus flower from this dirty water, Gyan Mudra helps us to purify our thoughts.”
VINITHA BASKARAN
HOPE AND LOVE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“The world will be a better place with an abundance of Hope and Love. In this difficult time of year, Let us all hope that this too shall pass and spread as much as love as possible to one another.”
TROY CHAFIN
NATURE HEALS
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“Nature (the sun, trees, plants, animals, and so on) is the greatest source of therapy for humans that has ever existed. Everything in nature is meant to heal us. In this age of isolation, yes, the world needs messages of action, staying in separation from each other, and helping one another. But in addition to this, we all also need messages of calming hope. That everything will be ok. Get some sunshine on your face, and connect with your plants and pets inside your home. Nature will heal us.”
Ruchita Ashok
HOPE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“Hope can be a powerful force, especially in difficult times. Today, the world is facing the coronavirus crisis, a pandemic that has changed lives for millions of people, so Let’s stand strong behind every fighter and to donate non-profits organizations providing relief during Covid-19 and taking all precautionary measures. Stay safe at home. And most importantly, remember prevention is better than cure.🌼”
Ruchita Ashok
BELIEVES
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“Every little donation will help in making sure that somebody doesn’t sleep hungry.”
BUNNIE REISS
HOPE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“I created these posters as a way to connect with the world during a time of such complete isolation. My hope is that they help others to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The only real way for us to get through this is together.
BUNNIE REISS
STANDING APART
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age
“I created these posters as a way to connect with the world during a time of such complete isolation. My hope is that they help others to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The only real way for us to get through this is together.”
EMILY PERELMAN
SUPPORT EACH OTHER
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
Digital illustration representing themes of support, coming together, and shining a light in a time of darkness, by Emily Lynn Perelman.
See more from Emily here
EMILY PERELMAN
SUPPORT EACH OTHER
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
Digital illustration representing themes of support, coming together, and shining a light in a time of darkness, by Emily Lynn Perelman.
See more from Emily here
LENDL ROMERO
SACRIFICES
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
A Greater risk of everything in life is what our Medical People are willing to sacrifice fighting this life threatening pandemic. Most countries are not prepared and it comes with a prize . My art speaks everything lacking on our Health Care System . We may get through this soon but we need to provide them the liberty and support they need . To our Front liners we salute and pray for the strength you put into despite the lack of measures of our Government. (Ray thorns & Sun represents the hero / liberty image)
KIMBERLY ASHBY
SELF CARE
In response to COVID-19, The Wellbeing Project, in collaboration with Amplifier Art launched a campaign with top art curators and public-health advisors from around the world, looking for symbols that promote mental health, wellbeing and social change work in this new age.
Kimberly Marie Ashby is a Black and Native American, queer, woman artist, activist, and doctoral candidate in counseling psychology. Kimberly creates hand-cut collages through an Afrofuturist lens, using found materials to reflect marginalized people’s ability to make marvels out of the scraps they are given. Kimberly created this hand-cut collage To express the importance of self-care, particularly for Black and Brown people in the US who are being disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
