Dr. Rasha Kelej Highlights Creativity’s Role in Combating Infertility Stigma and Promoting Girl Education

Berlin: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, underscored the significance of creativity in addressing social issues, particularly infertility stigma and girl education, as the foundation celebrated World Art Day 2026. This event also marked the 6th anniversary of the Pan-African Art and Fashion with Purpose community, which she established to tackle health and social challenges across Africa.According to African Press Organization, Merck Foundation, the charitable arm of Merck KGaA Germany, has been instrumental in raising awareness through art and fashion. Dr. Kelej, recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans, emphasized art, fashion, and media as vital tools for cultural and social awareness. The foundation's initiatives focus on breaking infertility stigma, supporting education for girls, ending practices like FGM and child marriage, combating gender-based violence, and promoting health awareness on issues like diabetes and cancer.The foundation's initiatives include "Our Africa by Mer ck Foundation," a pan-African TV program directed and co-hosted by Dr. Kelej. This program highlights African fashion designers, singers, and experts to foster cultural shifts and awareness across the continent. Broadcasted on prime TV stations and social media platforms, it has gained a significant following.Merck Foundation, in collaboration with Africa's First Ladies, also hosts annual awards to recognize media, fashion designers, filmmakers, and musicians who contribute to social change. The awards focus on breaking infertility stigma, supporting girls' education, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. In 2026, entries are being accepted via [email protected] Art and Fashion with Purpose Community, featuring award winners from 25 countries, continues to challenge perceptions and raise awareness about sensitive issues. The community includes 102 fashion award winners, 53 song award winners, and 20 film award winners, who use their creative talents to influence social change.Moreover, Merck Foundation's community programs include over 30 songs in multiple languages to address critical issues, and the publication of nine children's storybooks and six awareness animation films in various languages to instill grassroots change.For more information on Merck Foundation's initiatives, songs, storybooks, and animation films, visit their official platforms.