Despite numerous efforts to achieve work-life balance, technologies and events have promoted stronger and better ways of connecting people, inadvertently asserting more obligations to care for our bodies and our environment. Pollicy has been at the forefront of embracing care and wellness in the workplace while recognising that the future of work is changing.
Over the course of the three-day event, Pollicy’s annual DataFest Africa 2024, held at the Aga Khan University, ensured that wellness, mental health and care was a priority, drawing from experiences in previous events. This year, DataFest Africa saw the introduction of a dedicated wellness hub and it quickly became a vital sanctuary for many participants. This was a game changer! The space offered an oasis of calm amidst the busy sessions and discussions, allowing attendees to recharge, de-stress, and re-centre themselves.
In line with Pollicy’s feminist practices, we recognised the importance of creating an environment that supports a person and not just on the professional aspects of their lives. By creating a space designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, Pollicy not only addressed the immediate needs of the event’s attendees but also set a precedent for future Data Fest events.
The space was a tangible expression of this ethos, demonstrating that feminism is not only about advocating for change in the world but also about nurturing ourselves and each other along the way.
The hub featured a variety of activities and services designed to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. Attendees got to; doodle, color, use aromatherapy scents, listen to calming music, devour candy, lie down or sit on comfortable mats with pillows, sip calming tea, as well as get massages.
The success of the wellness hub at DataFest Africa 2024 underscores a growing trend of incorporating mental health and well-being into professional events. As the tech and data sectors advance, it’s evident that balancing high-performance expectations with personal wellness is essential. Pollicy’s considerate strategy sets an example for other organizations, showing that prioritizing participants’ mental and emotional health can complement the drive for innovation and knowledge sharing.
Overall, DataFest was more than just a display of data-driven insights and innovations; it also highlighted the value of holistic care in professional environments. Pollicy’s initiative ensured that, despite the event’s excitement and energy, each participant’s well-being received the attention it rightfully deserves.
Author: Bridget Nabacwa, Pollicy
