Berlin: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasizes the role of art and fashion in breaking infertility stigma and supporting girl education as Merck Foundation marks World Art Day 2026. The organization, a philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, celebrates the 6-year anniversary of its Pan-African Art and Fashion with Purpose community, which addresses vital health and social issues across Africa and beyond.

According to African Press Organization, Dr. Rasha Kelej, who is also one of the 100 Most Influential Africans from 2019 to 2025, expresses her belief in the power of art, fashion, and media to raise awareness on crucial social and health challenges. The community, established in 2020, focuses on breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending practices like FGM and child marriage, and promoting gender equality, while empowering artists to use their creativity for cultural transformation.

The Merck Foundation has launched multiple initiatives, including the pan-African TV program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation." This program, produced and co-hosted by Dr. Kelej, features African fashion designers, singers, and experts who address pressing issues through the voices of the Fashion and Art with Purpose community. It has gained a significant following across Africa, reaching millions of viewers.

Beyond the television program, the Merck Foundation, in collaboration with The First Ladies of Africa, annually announces awards for media, fashion designers, filmmakers, musicians, and young talents. These awards focus on themes like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The foundation has celebrated 175 exceptional talents from 25 countries through its Fashion, Film, and Song Awards.

Additionally, the Merck Foundation has produced over 30 songs with African artists in various languages to tackle critical issues. The foundation has also launched children's storybooks and awareness animation films in multiple languages to reach communities and foster change at the grassroots level.