Global Wellness Day (GWD), celebrated by millions of people on 8 June this year, was founded by Belgin Aksoy in Turkey and started to spread worldwide in 2012. Since then, it has been celebrated by millions of people in over 170 countries and tens of thousands of different locations with non-profit events. GWD is a social movement that supports the universal term ‘wellness’, emphasising the importance of healthy and good living.
GWD works together with 120 global ambassadors and 22 main supporters from around the world to spread its message. As the UK ambassador for GWD, I am proud and happy to be part of this non-profit organisation that symbolises the ‘well-being’ philosophy in my life, beliefs, and goals — hence sharing its message and raising awareness has an utmost importance for me.
GWD is a non-profit organisation brand with effective international influence. As a strategic lifestyle brand consultant based on positive psychology, I want to share the purpose-driven brand story of GWD through my interview with GWD founder, Belgin Aksoy.
How did the brand story begin and what is the main purpose of GWD?
Belgin Aksoy: In 2004 I experienced serious health problems. During this challenging time I made radical changes in my life to regain my health. Through the experience I understood that the balance of health and happiness is an indispensable scale. After seeing the positive effects of the change in my life, I couldn’t sit idly by; I had to do something to share it with the world.
The starting point of this journey was a simple yet meaningful question: ‘While living well is our common dream, why is there no “Wellness Day” accepted worldwide?’ With this thought I set out to create Global Wellness Day and spread its impact worldwide. GWD exists to steer everyone towards raising awareness about wellbeing among both individuals and society. The main goal is to appreciate the value of our lives, cleanse ourselves from the stress of city life and daily bad habits, unite countries in an inspiring mission, and spread the message that wellbeing is not a luxury but a necessity and a fundamental right for all of us.
What was the brand strategy to increase GWD’s recognition worldwide?
A universal wellness message was created, events were organised in different countries with our ambassadors, and a holistic health approach was adopted. In the marketing strategy, social media campaigns, content marketing, and support from celebrities were utilised. In public relations, the message of Global Wellness Day was spread through media collaborations, international conferences, and volunteer work. GWD is a big family supported by volunteers, sponsor brands, municipalities, and ministries that help us spread our wellness philosophy through all these events.
How would you define the brand values of the day?
GWD value pillars are Health and Wellness, Positive Change, Community and Togetherness, Awareness and Sustainability.
And the brand personality?
GWD is Inspiring, Sincere, Supportive, Inclusive, and Positive.
What is the reason for choosing magenta as GWD’s main colour?
Magenta was chosen because it represents universal harmony and emotional balance. It combines the energy and passion of red with the calmness and tranquillity of blue. It symbolises the compassion, kindness, and cooperation at the heart of our mission. It stands out vibrantly, attracts attention, and inspires positive actions, making it the perfect colour to represent Global Wellness Day.
This year’s theme is #MagentaNature. We believe that a connection with the natural world is essential for a good life. For us, nature is not just a place; it is an experience that nurtures physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Was it a conscious choice to get the support of globally recognised leaders like Oprah Winfrey, Richard Branson, and Dr. Mehmet Oz, or did this develop organically?
The support of celebrities for GWD developed largely organically. Many celebrities embrace and promote a healthy lifestyle, so they naturally supported GWD’s message and mission and this played a significant role in reaching a wide audience.
What is the most satisfying and motivating aspect of GWD’s work?
First of all, I am proud of my entire GWD family — our unity, morale-boosting attitude, mutual support, working together day and night to spread well-being, and finally seeing Global Wellness Day celebrated by millions of people worldwide makes me very happy.
For the past three years, I have been proud and honoured to participate in the GWD event in the Padeng village on the Thailand-Myanmar border, providing medical support, food aid, lice cleaning, and fun activities for children to many tribes living as refugees. I am proud and honored to be part of this event.
Another unforgettable proud moment is the arrival of the Global Wellness Day flag at the summit of Mount Everest — I hope one day I will have the chance to make this challenging but beautiful mountain climb myself.
What is your biggest dream for GWD?
My ultimate goal for Global Wellness Day is to promote better living for individuals and communities. Even though the day lasts only 24 hours, the important thing is our message is timeless. Recognition of Global Wellness Day on the United Nations Official Calendar would mark a personal victory for me. This would symbolise that our collective commitment to well-being is a legacy that will be celebrated by future generations.
As Richard Branson said, ‘The brands that will thrive in the coming years are the ones that have a purpose beyond profit.’
Taking responsibility with a positive perspective and making our every decision consciously, I believe we can establish a healthier, happier, and wellness-based lifestyle for ourselves, our loved ones, our work and our world. Save the date for next year’s Global Wellness Day celebrations on 14 June 2025. Until then keep well and increase awareness by sharing GWD for a good and healthy life with your family, friends, and environment using #globalwellnessday and @globalwellnessday.
Featured image: Selin Persentili Aral / GWD