What does it truly take to move beyond survival and into a state of thriving? On March 3, 2026, the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) released the 20th issue of its award-winning research magazine, CURIOS.TY, themed #Thrive.
This landmark issue dives deep into the systems, biological foundations, and community ties that allow individuals, families, and the planet to flourish in an increasingly complex world.
From Birth to Beyond: A Lifespan of Resilience
The issue tracks the human journey through every stage:
- The Start: How antenatal support shapes the health of future generations.
- The Revolution: Reimagining adolescence (ages 10–24) not as a phase to endure, but as a revolutionary period of innovation.
- The Golden Years: Addressing why Africans are living longer but facing new health challenges in brain and gut health.
- The Unspoken: Highlighting the urgent need for global attention on menopause within the African context.
Systems and Solutions: Flourishing by Design
Thriving isn’t just personal—it’s systemic. CURIOS.TY explores cutting-edge Wits research into:
- Movement as Medicine: Why exercise remains the world’s most powerful (and accessible) drug.
- Natural Wealth: Strategies for South Africa to convert its vast mineral, solar, and wind resources into resilient wealth.
- Smart Sustainability: Solving water crises and valuing “care work” in the shadow of climate change.
- African Philanthropy: How locally grounded, problem-first approaches are helping the continent flourish despite global pressures.
Issue Highlights
- Teenagers to Save the World (p.12): A look at the innovative power of the youth.
- 50 is the New 60 (p.18): Why Africa’s aging population requires a health research pivot.
- Resource to Resilience (p.34): Turning South Africa’s sunlight and wind into long-term stability.
- The Human Story (p.46): PhD student Caitlin Wheeler on the emotional data behind scientific discovery.
