High Level Dialogue - Session III: Arts, Culture and Human Flourishing in Brain-Positive Cities

EMEA high-level dialogue “Brain Economy and Brain-Positive Cities: Building Urban Ecosystems for Human Flourishing, Resilience and Sustainable Development”, 06 July 2026 The third session explored the role of arts and culture in supporting wellbeing, creativity and social cohesion. The discussion also considered the contribution of cultural heritage, place-making, creative ecosystems and cultural participation to brain capital development, lifelong learning, innovation and urban resilience. The session was chaired by Prof. Pier Luigi Sacco, Full Professor at the University of Chieti-Pescara and EMEA Advisor. Speakers Jemima Lowe, Innovation and Policy, Jameel Arts & Health Lab Giulia Sonetti, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow, ISGlobal Bo Wang, Chair, Shanghai Medical Innovation and Development Foundation Discussants Aureli Soria-Frisch, Director, Starlab Barcelona Alba Méndez, CEO, Qualia Estudio Thushara Sabreen, Founder and CEO, Soule The session underlined the importance of cultural participation and creative environments in supporting mental wellbeing, strengthening community connections and contributing to inclusive and vibrant urban ecosystems.