Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Merck Foundation and President of the More Than a Mother campaign, recently honored the winners of the 2023 Merck Foundation Fashion Awards. This year’s awards were held in partnership with several African First Ladies, who also serve as ambassadors for the Merck Foundation More Than a Mother initiative. The event showcased the innovative designs of 16 talented winners whose work delivered powerful messages about pressing social and health issues across Africa.
In her address, Dr. Kelej expressed her pride in the winners, highlighting how their designs not only exemplified exceptional skill but also addressed critical issues such as infertility stigma, girl education, child marriage, gender-based violence (GBV), female genital mutilation (FGM), and women’s empowerment. “We warmly welcome them into our ‘Fashion & Art with Purpose’ community,” Dr. Kelej said. “I firmly believe that fashion can play a pivotal role in raising awareness on important health and social challenges, and in driving a cultural shift in Africa.”
Promoting Change Through Fashion
The More Than a Mother Fashion Awards, an integral part of Merck Foundation’s efforts, focused on social issues that directly impact women and girls. The awards aim to break the stigma surrounding infertility, support girls’ education, and combat harmful practices such as child marriage, FGM, and gender-based violence. The winners’ designs creatively communicated these themes, sparking conversation and fostering awareness.
The Diabetes & Hypertension Fashion Awards, another key initiative, focused on raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension, two growing health concerns in Africa. The awards sought to inspire a healthier lifestyle across the continent.
Through these fashion-driven initiatives, Merck Foundation continues to engage with communities, using art and culture to address urgent health and social issues, while supporting ongoing efforts to empower women and improve public health in Africa.
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