The 𝐒𝐚𝐮𝐝𝐢 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭: 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧, was held on October 26th at Alfaisal University. Founded by Dr. Baraa Alghalyini, this event marked the beginning of a bold new initiative, aimed at making wellness and holistic health not just accessible, but central to our everyday lives. Throughout this initiative, a platform that would bring together experts, advocates, and community members to champion women’s health and spark meaningful change towards wellness and wellbeing was envisioned.
This event was made truly remarkable through several highlights, where it started with opening remarks by Dr. Alghalyini emphasizing the whole team commitment to making wellness a priority across all sectors through education, research, and public awareness; supported by Alfaisal University leadership. This set the tone for meaningful conversations about the depth of holistic and equitable wellbeing and an inspiring day of learning, sharing, and connecting via several panels:
– Panel 1: Screening and Prevention addressed essential topics such as cervical cancer survivorship, innovative holistic approaches to women’s health, and understanding the intricate beauty of our bodies. Incredible speakers – Eng. Sara Al-Otaibi, M.Arch, ACC, Dr. Ahmed Alayoubi, and Dr. Rayyan Abdulwahed – brought unique insights that resonated deeply with the audience.
– Panel 2: Mental Health and Wellbeing focused on nurturing mental health, discussing stress management, resilience, and overcoming sleep deprivation, as well as the benefits of physical activity. The outstanding speakers, Dr. Mohammed Alhajji, PhD, MPH, Dr. Nadia Banafae, and Dr. Sarah Farhoud, delivered practical and impactful messages and guidance that resonated with many in the audience.
The interactive workshops and wellness activities truly brought the event to life. Participants experienced hands-on sessions, including yoga, pilates, breathing techniques, and dynamic neuromuscular training, while the outdoor bike and run activities added a fun, community-building element.
The positive energy and enthusiasm during the event were palpable, and the feedback has been nothing short of inspiring. The event marked an important step toward advancing women’s health and holistic wellness in our community, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback reaffirms that we’re on the right track.
Alfaisal’s leadership belief in this cause and their unwavering support allowed Dr. Alghalyini and the organizing team to host a gathering that was impactful, thoughtful, and inclusive. By that, a strong foundation has came live, and the team is eager to continue to build on it together. Heartfelt appreciation goes out to the event partners, Rofaida Women’s Health Organization (Dr. Fatimah S. Alhamlan and her amazing team) & Alfaisal Wellness and Health Office (AU-WHO), for the steadfast commitment to advancing the cause of women’s wellness. Sincere gratitude goes out to Alfaisal’s facility management, marketing and communications, advancement, PR, and IT teams for their hard work behind the scenes, and to the incredible team at the Department of Family & Community Medicine (Dr. Racha Khaled, Dr. Abdul Rehman Zia Zaidi, Dr. Rawan Elshaer, Dr. Farah Almassri, Dr. Aya Alazm) and dedicated volunteers who made this event a true success.
“The Saudi Wellness Meet: Start with Women” was not just a one-day event, but a memorable experience that truly touched so many lives. It marks the beginning of a movement to a new era of wellness, with dedication to making wellness equitable and accessible. This is just the start, and it is planned to host these events several times a year, with upcoming sessions covering themes such as healthcare for professionals, disabilities, and longevity. This initiative is intended to break down barriers and bridge gaps to ensure everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthier life, thus paving the way to empower communities and prioritize health and wellbeing.
Dr. Baraa was invited to highlight the latest and widely successful launch of the Saudi Wellness Meet at Saudi TV (Morning Saudi Show) and Saudi Radio (Riyadh Broadcast). Both interviews are now on Linkedin, Twitter and Youtube, and can be accessed through the following links:
