The Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany has announced the submission of nominations for the ‘More Than a Mother’ 2021 Award in partnership with the African First Ladies who are also the Foundation’s Ambassadors.
The competition is open to all African filmmakers and students. Applicants are asked to create and share a film or docudrama that conveys strong and influential messages about breaking the stigma of infertility, Empower Girls and Women through Education at all levels.
Rasha Kelej, President of the Merck More Than a Mother Foundation emphasized, “We launched the award in partnership with my dear sisters 20 African First Ladies. The goal is to encourage promising filmmakers and new talent across the continent to use their talent to create a film or documentary to convey messages to break the stigma of infertility and remind our communities that women are more than just mothers and men are more than just fathers. It takes a man and a woman to have a child. Also, to empower girls and women through education at all levels.”
“Films have played a significant role in bringing about cultural change in society around the world for many years. I strongly believe that this visual medium plays an important role in raising awareness about sensitive issues such as infertility stigma and supporting girls’ education. The films are invited in three languages: English, French and Portuguese,” added Rasha Kelej.
The Merck Foundation’s jury committee will select the three best films from the entries received that will be awarded prize money ranging from $500 to $1,000.
“Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a movement that aims to empower women with infertility through access to information, education and changing mindsets. With the “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” campaign, the organization has initiated a cultural shift to destigmatize infertility and empower women and girls through education at all levels.
“Filmmakers, it’s time to showcase your talent and contribute to making a difference in society with your unique films with strong and relevant messages about the stigma of infertility and the empowerment of women, especially women with infertility and childlessness. And also to show the importance of girls’ education,” added Rasha Kelej.
For more information about the contest, you can visit the website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
