In her talk, Eva reflected on Charles Darwin’s theory of ‘survival of the fittest’, which is so often observed in nature. In contrast, Stefan Klein proposed the theory of ‘survival of the nicest’, suggesting that a large portion of our brain is designed for cooperation, which has enabled humankind to thrive and achieve. Klein argues that altruism is our defining trait. Early humans survived by working together in groups, passing down the genes that gave rise to intelligence, language, culture, and ultimately, humanity itself. As Eva’s colleague aptly describes, kindness doesn’t mean weakness – one can be a marshmallow with a backbone of steel.

She explained that our brains are wired for growth through empathy and intelligence. Mirror neurons fire when we witness the actions or emotions of others, echoing the saying, ‘When you smile, the world smiles with you’. A leader who approaches life with positivity and warmth will naturally inspire the same in others. This is why body language often speaks louder than words.

Eva also spoke about moral elevation – a biologically driven response to witnessing acts of kindness or inspiration. Such moments spark a change in our own behaviour and remind us that our actions ripple outward far beyond ourselves.

She went on to highlight the role of oxytocin, the so-called ‘cuddle hormone’. Produced in the brain and carried through the bloodstream, oxytocin fosters connection and inspiration, aids healing, reduces inflammation and counteracts cortisol. This makes selfcare not only essential but also profoundly unselfish, because in order to create change in the world, we must first take care of ourselves.

Eva emphasised the importance of the nervous system’s two parts: the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest). To strengthen the parasympathetic system, she stressed the value of quality sleep, along with eating well, avoiding toxins, practicing positive self-talk and cultivating optimism.

She also discussed brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein released during exercise that enhances learning and cognitive function. Since the brain stops developing automatically after around age 27, intentional, varied and enriching experiences are essential to stimulate growth and change throughout adulthood.

Finally, Eva returned to the Bold Beauty Project, the Miami-based nonprofit she founded in 2015. Its mission is to transform disability into art, raising awareness for women living with different conditions through exhibitions on five major college campuses and internationally. Cape Town will host the second international Bold Beauty Project exhibition soon, and Eva encouraged attendees to participate and help spread the word.

Ubuntu Members can access the recording from the event! Find out more…

In her talk, Eva reflected on Charles Darwin’s theory of ‘survival of the fittest’, which is so often observed in nature. In contrast, Stefan Klein proposed the theory of ‘survival of the nicest’, suggesting that a large portion of our brain is designed for cooperation, which has enabled humankind to thrive and achieve. Klein argues that altruism is our defining trait. Early humans survived by working together in groups, passing down the genes that gave rise to intelligence, language, culture, and ultimately, humanity itself. As Eva’s colleague aptly describes, kindness doesn’t mean weakness – one can be a marshmallow with a backbone of steel.

She explained that our brains are wired for growth through empathy and intelligence. Mirror neurons fire when we witness the actions or emotions of others, echoing the saying, ‘When you smile, the world smiles with you’. A leader who approaches life with positivity and warmth will naturally inspire the same in others. This is why body language often speaks louder than words.

Eva also spoke about moral elevation – a biologically driven response to witnessing acts of kindness or inspiration. Such moments spark a change in our own behaviour and remind us that our actions ripple outward far beyond ourselves.

She went on to highlight the role of oxytocin, the so-called ‘cuddle hormone’. Produced in the brain and carried through the bloodstream, oxytocin fosters connection and inspiration, aids healing, reduces inflammation and counteracts cortisol. This makes selfcare not only essential but also profoundly unselfish, because in order to create change in the world, we must first take care of ourselves.

Eva emphasised the importance of the nervous system’s two parts: the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest). To strengthen the parasympathetic system, she stressed the value of quality sleep, along with eating well, avoiding toxins, practicing positive self-talk and cultivating optimism.

She also discussed brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein released during exercise that enhances learning and cognitive function. Since the brain stops developing automatically after around age 27, intentional, varied and enriching experiences are essential to stimulate growth and change throughout adulthood.

Finally, Eva returned to the Bold Beauty Project, the Miami-based nonprofit she founded in 2015. Its mission is to transform disability into art, raising awareness for women living with different conditions through exhibitions on five major college campuses and internationally. Cape Town will host the second international Bold Beauty Project exhibition soon, and Eva encouraged attendees to participate and help spread the word.

Ubuntu Members can access the recording from the event! Find out more…