Merck Foundation CEO Calls for Applications for 2025 Merck Foundation FILM Awards
Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in collaboration with African First Ladies, recently announced the winners of the Merck Foundation FILM Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023. The awards aim to raise awareness on important social issues such as supporting girls’ education, ending child marriage, and stopping gender-based violence.
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More than a Mother” campaign, expressed her delight in announcing the winners and commended the efforts of young filmmakers across Africa in addressing these critical issues through their films.
The theme of the “More Than a Mother” Film Awards focused on breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending FGM, and empowering women. On the other hand, the “Diabetes and Hypertension” Film Awards aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension in African countries.
Dr. Kelej emphasized the role of art, including filmmaking, in bringing about a cultural shift in society. She encouraged filmmakers and young talents to use their creativity to address social and health issues in their communities.
The winners of the Merck Foundation FILM Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023 were announced, with the first position awarded to the film “WAIN WI” about supporting girls’ education. The second position went to Habila Ibrahim Abel from Nigeria for the film “CAGED” addressing gender-based violence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kelej announced the call for applications for the 2025 edition of the Merck Foundation Film Awards, including the “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes & Hypertension” categories. African filmmakers, students of film-making institutions, and young talents are invited to submit their films addressing the specified themes.
The submission deadline for the Merck Foundation FILM Awards 2025 “More Than a Mother” is set for September 30th, while the deadline for the “Diabetes & Hypertension” category is October 30th.
The Merck Foundation remains dedicated to improving healthcare access, empowering women and youth in STEM fields, and supporting underserved communities. It maintains a strict non-political stance in all its endeavors, focusing solely on its mission to enhance well-being and elevate humanity.
For more information on the Merck Foundation FILM Awards and how to apply, visit the Merck Foundation website or reach out to the Community Awareness Program Manager, Mehak Handa, at mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com.
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