Brain Health Matters

Exploring equity and innovation in brain health.

Imagine a world where brain health is universally accessible and locally relevant, driven by collaborative efforts across diverse communities. Picture a future where experts from various fields and knowledge systems join forces to create innovative solutions for mental well-being. This inclusive approach could foster better outcomes while respecting individual dignity.

Amplifying stories of people with a lived experience of illnesses such as dementia or epilepsy, and engaging communities on their health and research priorities, holds the potential to promote brain health equitably. Designing strategies that include indigenous practices, the arts, and other activities that nurture health alongside illness-specific management, could revolutionise health systems.

These thought-provoking discussions unfolded at TEDxJohannesburgSalon: Brain Health Matters, supported by the Atlantic Fellows Programs and the Nelson Mandela Foundation on Thursday 12 October.

We held the event at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Houghton, Johannesburg. It brought together a diverse group of local and international professionals, on and off the stage, including experts in clinical practice, social sciences, traditional wisdom, arts, public health, research, policy, and education. The discussions and insights shared during the event were truly transformative for many attendees.