Berlin: Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, commemorates World Art Day 2026 with the Pan-African Art and Fashion with Purpose community, established by Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation. The foundation also marks the 6-year anniversary of this community, which is dedicated to using art and fashion to address significant health and social issues across Africa and beyond. According to African Press Organization, Dr. Rasha Kelej, a prominent figure recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans from 2019 to 2025, emphasized the role of art, fashion, and media as vital tools for raising awareness about critical social and health issues. She highlighted the community's work in breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, and addressing issues like FGM, child marriage, gender-based violence, and diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. The community includes members from over 25 countries, reflecting a broad and diverse reach. One of the key initiat ives of Merck Foundation is the pan-African TV program, "Our Africa by Merck Foundation," which was conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Dr. Rasha Kelej. The program aims to highlight pressing issues across the continent and engage audiences through the voices of fashion designers, singers, and experts from various domains. It has successfully captured the interest of millions of viewers across Africa and is widely available on social media platforms. In partnership with the First Ladies of Africa, Merck Foundation annually announces eight awards across two themes: breaking infertility stigma and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The awards recognize exceptional talents in media, fashion, film, and music, encouraging young African talents to contribute to social change. The foundation has celebrated 175 winners from 25 countries through its Fashion, Film, and Song Awards. These winners are now integral members of the Fashion and Art with Purpose Community, using their talents to spark conversat ions and raise awareness on sensitive social and health issues. Additionally, Merck Foundation has collaborated with African artists to create over 30 songs in multiple languages, addressing critical issues. The foundation has also launched nine children's storybooks and six awareness animation films in five languages to foster community awareness and instigate change at the grassroots level. For further engagement, Merck Foundation encourages the public to listen to their songs, read storybooks, and watch animation films, all aimed at promoting social awareness and education.
