Vogue India Features Dr. Kelej’s Innovative Merck Foundation Work in Africa

Dr. Kelej’s initiatives are rooted in a powerful idea—that the creative world of fashion, music, and media can act as a bridge between awareness and action.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the dynamic CEO of Merck Foundation, has once again captured international attention—this time with an in-depth feature by Vogue India titled “Leading with Courage and Conviction: Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej on empowering women, advancing healthcare, and transforming media in Africa.” Known for her vibrant and unconventional approach to social change, Dr. Kelej continues to break barriers by using creative platforms such as art, fashion, and media to tackle deeply rooted social and health challenges across Africa.

This recognition by Vogue India celebrates not only her innovative campaigns but also her enduring commitment to transforming lives. “I have been a long-time Vogue reader, and I am truly delighted to be featured by Vogue India for my creative approach to driving social change,” Dr. Kelej remarked. Her pride is palpable, as she views this acknowledgment as a validation of her work to bring real change in African communities.

The Power of Creativity: Engaging the Heart to Inspire Action

Dr. Kelej’s initiatives are rooted in a powerful idea—that the creative world of fashion, music, and media can act as a bridge between awareness and action. By combining cultural richness with social purpose, she has pioneered groundbreaking initiatives like:

• Our Africa TV Program – A pan-African platform that merges entertainment with education, covering topics from infertility to gender-based violence.

• Songs and Storybooks – Designed for children and youth, these tools address complex topics in digestible, culturally resonant ways.

• Animation Films – Creative storytelling to spark dialogue and reduce stigma around taboo subjects.

• Merck Foundation Awards – Honoring the best in media, music, film, and fashion that contribute to social change.

These efforts are unique in their multidimensional approach—educating while also uplifting, challenging societal norms while promoting pride in African identity.

Championing Healthcare Equity Across the Continent

Under Dr. Kelej’s visionary leadership, the Merck Foundation has evolved into a beacon of hope for underserved medical sectors. With over 2,250 scholarships awarded to young doctors from 52 countries, the foundation has significantly advanced healthcare access in areas often neglected. These scholarships cover over 44 critical and underserved medical specialties, such as oncology, diabetes, endocrinology, reproductive care, and cardiovascular health.

This not only builds medical capacity in Africa but ensures sustainability, as doctors are trained to serve their communities directly. As the foundation grows, it continues to forge long-term solutions to systemic healthcare gaps.

Strategic Alliances with African First Ladies

One of the most distinctive features of Dr. Kelej’s leadership is her ability to build powerful partnerships. She has established active collaborations with over 28 African First Ladies, creating an influential network that combines state-level commitment with grassroots action.

These partnerships have resulted in large-scale impact campaigns, extending from awareness drives to institutional reforms, all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Empowering the Girl Child: The ‘Educating Linda’ Initiative

Another pillar of Merck Foundation’s impact under Dr. Kelej is “Educating Linda”—a scholarship and mentorship program that supports high-performing but underprivileged girls. To date, the program has provided 800 scholarships to schoolgirls across several African nations.

The initiative aims to curb child marriage, reduce school dropout rates, and help young women achieve economic independence through education. These girls are not just recipients of aid—they are future leaders, doctors, scientists, and change-makers.

Recognized Globally for Her Leadership

Dr. Kelej’s trailblazing work has garnered her numerous accolades. She has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans for six consecutive years (2019–2024). Her foundation has earned the ‘NGO of the Year’ awards in both 2022 and 2024, and was also named the Most Influential NGO Shaping Africa’s Future. In 2023, it won the Best Health Sector Philanthropy Award.

Each of these honors reflects the transformative nature of her work, which blends empathy with strategy, and tradition with innovation.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Advocacy Through Art

Dr. Kelej’s next frontier involves further amplifying her message through digital media and new storytelling technologies. She remains committed to empowering the next generation, particularly through inclusive campaigns that continue to challenge stigma and champion health equity.

“I’ve always believed that fashion, art, and media can be powerful instruments to inspire positive change—beyond just entertainment,” Dr. Kelej shares. With every story told, every life empowered, and every barrier broken, she continues to lead with courage, creativity, and conviction.