We are delighted to share that Estella will be speaking in Zurich as part of our European summit. We caught up with her to see how she’s feeling in the runup to the event.
Hi Estella, we are thrilled that you will be speaking at the Wellbeing at Work Europe Summit in May. Our first and most important question is, how are you doing today?
Thanks for asking! I am doing great. Really excited and energized to be part of this event, exploring the topic of Wellbeing. And nervous as well… Which I believe is only human.
As a leader based in the region, what are the main challenges you are facing when it comes to employee wellbeing and mental health?
In today’s world, the constant turmoil and uncertainty can be overwhelming, adding a significant mental load to people’s lives. Whether they are dealing with issues in their personal or professional spheres, it’s crucial to meet them where they are on the mental health continuum. Our goal is to provide support and resources that cater to their unique needs and circumstances.
What strategies have you seen developing over the past 6 months, both internally and externally, that are moving the dial on wellbeing in the workplace?
Wellbeing has evolved beyond being merely an HR initiative. Increasingly, companies are integrating wellbeing into leadership behaviours, team norms, and performance conversations. Managers are now expected to take care of their employees, while employees are encouraged to take responsibility for their own wellbeing.
Why is employee wellbeing so important to you personally?
Employee wellbeing matters to me because work should be a place where we can be fully human. When people feel safe to bring their whole selves, their strengths, struggles, energy, and doubts. When we get that right, work becomes more than just a place to perform, it becomes a place to grow, connect, and do meaningful work. And that makes business human.
What impact is AI having in your organisation and how are you managing that?
AI is transforming how we deliver wellbeing, making topics like coaching and learning more accessible to everyone, everywhere. It helps us scale personalized, tailored support to a larger audience in ways that weren’t possible before. But the real impact comes when AI is paired with peer support, 1:1 coaching, and community spaces.
Other than AI, are there any challenges that you are seeing for the first time and how are you addressing them?
We have never seen so many generations at work before. With different needs and expectations around work-life balance, wellbeing, and career development, a one-size-fits-all approach no longer works. The key is offering choice; creating wellbeing offering that is broad enough to be inclusive, yet flexible enough to be meaningful for everyone.
What areas do you think employers should be focused on over the next 12 months?
Employers should focus on integrating wellbeing into the full employee experience, not as an extra, but as part of how work happens, how we treat each other and how we show up at work. The future of wellbeing at work isn’t about adding more programs; it’s about creating an environment where people can thrive.
Do you feel that investment in employee wellbeing in the region is increasing or decreasing and is that a direct reflection on HR leaders’ increasing ability to demonstrate effective returns of their strategies to leadership?
Investment in employee wellbeing will always be a challenge, especially when competing with other initiatives that may promise a quicker return on investment. However, wellbeing is increasingly becoming a key part of a company’s reputation, especially when attracting new talent.
How has your organisation been leading the way?
Our organization is leading the way by embedding a culture of care where it’s okay to not be okay, to offer support throughout the mental health continuum. We focus on welcoming all emotions, removing stigma, and making conversations about wellbeing safe and normal.
Estella will be speaking in Zurich at the Wellbeing at Work Summit Europe which takes place in Zurich on 13th May, virtually on 14th May and in Amsterdam on 15th May. Further details on the Summit and tickets can be found here.
