Thrive by WHX, a new global health and wellness experience

CAPE Town has been named the inaugural host city for Thrive by WHX, a global health and wellness experience launching in September 2025. Tom Coleman, Portfolio Director at Informa Markets — Healthcare, said the choice was deliberate, citing the city’s unique combination of natural beauty, innovation, and an active lifestyle culture.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

“Cape Town embodies the spirit of wellness, innovation, and active living that Thrive celebrates,” Coleman said. “It offers a unique mix of world-class infrastructure, an emerging health-conscious community, and a growing culture of fitness and well-being.”

Thrive aims to place Cape Town on the global stage as Africa’s wellness capital. While the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is not formally involved, the Ministry of Sports has pledged official support, helping to open the event.

The event will spotlight three central themes: education, innovation, and inclusivity. It will include CPD-accredited content, nutrition and longevity sessions, and a strong focus on women in sport and youth wellness.

“What sets Thrive apart is its immersive, holistic approach,” Coleman said. “It’s not just a conference or expo. It’s a space where science, sport, and real-world health converge inspires change across the continent.”

He added, “Cape Town will be our home for the foreseeable future. This event was conceptualised here, and there’s simply nothing like it anywhere else on the continent.”

The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport is also backing the initiative, although not a formal partner. The department is exploring future collaboration opportunities in wellness, performance, and community upliftment.