On April 9th, nearly 50 participants gathered at the Bartholomeus Gasthuis in Utrecht for the Preventive Dinner 2025—an evening of reflection, dialogue, and meaningful exchange. What made the night unique was the diversity at the table: policy makers, directors, and researchers sat side by side with members of a citizen panel. People from different worlds, united by a shared purpose—to explore what it takes to create a healthier, more resilient society. 

An invitation to think together 

The dinner was initiated by the Institute 4 Preventive Health (i4PH) and the Federatie voor Gezondheid, who share the belief that health should be accessible to all, and that shared responsibility is key. The central question of the evening: 

 “What is the value of (inner) wisdom in shaping a healthier society?” 

Guided by dialogue specialist Suzanne Leclaire, founder of The Curiosophy Collective, participants engaged in a living inquiry—bringing head, heart, and hands into the conversation. Rather than searching for the “right” answer, the evening invited participants to explore different perspectives and connect through meaningful questions. 

Where science meets everyday life 

 A strong theme throughout the evening was the importance of bridging the gap between science and practice, policy and lived experience. Health challenges today are complex and systemic. Addressing them requires more than disciplinary expertise—it calls for spaces where diverse forms of knowledge can meet, confront, and inspire one another. 

‘We hope this event allowed participants to step outside their own bubble, meet others, and take action together—old and new connections. i4PH values such initiatives: bridging the gap between science and practice to drive real, lasting preventive health change.’

Martine van der Mast – Programme Director i4PH

Just the beginning 

The dinner sparked powerful insights and new connections. Many participants expressed how refreshing it was to be part of an open and honest conversation that made space for nuance and personal experience:

‘Dialogue helps to clarify norms, beliefs and perspectives on a complex issue.’

‘Everyone has their own wisdom. It takes safety and courage to share it, but that is where the real solutions lie.’

‘You must share your own wisdom, it can create connection, and connection contributes to a healthy society.’

In the coming period, i4PH and partners will reflect on how to build on the momentum of the evening and move toward concrete next steps. One thing is clear: the journey toward a more preventive, inclusive health system will require all of us—and all of our wisdom.