On 15 May 2025, the World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS) officially launched its WHIS Italy initiative at the inspiring Fondazione Golinelli – Opificio Golinelli in Bologna. This marks a significant step in our global series of high-impact events dedicated to accelerating innovation in health, wellbeing, and sustainable development.
From the very beginning, the energy and commitment in the room were palpable. As one attendee put it — a sentiment echoed by many:
“Congratulations on yesterday – excellent level, great content. Thank you for inviting me.”
A Shared Vision for Impact
WHIS Italy 2025 isn’t just another event — it’s the beginning of a collaborative journey. It brings together thought leaders, innovators, public sector stakeholders, and private organizations to co-create solutions that place people and their wellbeing at the centre of healthcare transformation.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fondazione Golinelli for hosting us so graciously, and to BI-REX for providing space for both the preparatory meeting on 14 May and the afternoon session on the 15th.
Honoring Our Contributors
We were honored to welcome a diverse and exceptional group of speakers who provided deep insight and inspiration:
- Piero Formica, Maynooth University
- Pierluigi Stefanini, Fondazione del Monte di Bologna e Ravenna
- Federica Tadini, Fondazione Golinelli
- Alessandro Chiarini, BI-REX
- Stefano Antonelli, Dubai Chambers
- Francesco Critelli, Emilia-Romagna Region
- Michele D’Alena, Municipality of San Lazzaro di Savena
- Maddalena Illario, University of Naples Federico II
- Cecilia Bartolucci, CNR
- Carla Ferreri, GiustoPasto
- Stefano Nicoli, Surgeree
- Cristian Maggiolo, Senso Life
- Domenicantonio Galatà, Italian Association of Nutritionists in the Kitchen
- Ludo Pyis, The AREOPA Group
And to everyone who participated — your presence and contributions helped shape a meaningful and forward-looking conversation.
Looking Ahead
What emerged from the launch was a clear and powerful desire: to create a tangible, values-driven network focused on human wellbeing — globally informed and locally grounded.
The agenda for the months ahead is currently being finalized and will be published soon. Key elements include:
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Integrated initiatives with multi-sector partners
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Activation of operational workstreams
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Development of value-added services, from Health Innovation Centers to strategic support offerings We’ll continue to share updates and opportunities for engagement, with a special focus on promoting wellbeing within complex organizations and systems.
We are open to co-designing tailored initiatives — ideally in partnership — to bring impactful, scalable solutions to life. Together, we can drive real and widespread wellbeing.
Warm regards, Gareth Presch, Founder & CEO, World Health Innovation Summit Maurizio Morini, WHIS Italy