The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a preeminent authority in the wellness industry, has announced the appointment of Mariane Akwenye as the new Chair of the Africa Initiative. This prestigious appointment reflects Mariane’s unwavering dedication to African wellness traditions and her remarkable contributions to the global wellness landscape.
As Chair of the Africa Initiative, Mariane will lead efforts to elevate Africa’s presence on global wellness platforms. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in recognising the continent’s rich heritage of holistic wellness practices, which have inspired and enriched the global community. Africa’s Prominent Role in Global Wellness Africa has long been a reservoir of ancient healing wisdom, offering profound insights into natural wellness practices. The continent’s diverse traditions and holistic approaches have significantly influenced modern wellness trends.
Mariane Akwenye’s leadership aims to further amplify Africa’s contributions, ensuring that these invaluable traditions gain the recognition they deserve on the world stage. Under Mariane’s guidance, the Africa Initiative will focus on Promoting African Wellness Practice, Empowering Local Communities, Fostering Global Collaborations and seeking Sustainable and Inclusive Development by ensuring that the growth of the wellness industry in Africa is rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and respect for local traditions and communities.
According to Marianne, transformative Work with Visually Impaired Women One of the most inspiring aspects of her work and is her dedication to uplifting visually impaired women through the See Differently Foundation. “This initiative trains visually impaired and blind girls in massage therapy, enabling them to work in oncology centres. Through the power of touch, these women provide transformative care and comfort to patients undergoing cancer treatment, demonstrating the profound impact of African wellness practices,” she says.
A Vision for the Future Mariane Akwenye’s appointment is a testament to her lifelong commitment to preserving and promoting African wellness. As the Founder of Nomad, a preeminent African wellness brand, Mariane has successfully brought African healing practices to the global forefront. Her vision for the Africa Initiative aligns with GWI’s mission to empower wellness communities worldwide. According to, Chair and CEO of the Global Wellness Institute, Susie Ellis they are thrilled to have such an ambassador with those marginalized at heart. “Her expertise and passion for African wellness will undoubtedly drive significant progress, positioning Africa as a vital source of inspiration and knowledge in the global wellness arena.” Mariane Akwenye’s leadership will not only highlight Africa’s wellness heritage but also pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse global wellness industry. Her appointment is a call to embrace the rich tapestry of African traditions and acknowledge their profound impact on holistic well-being.