It takes one bold move to spark change, and for Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, that move is transforming creativity into a force for social good. Having worked on initiatives focused on deconstructing the stigma around infertility, supporting girl education, stopping gender-based violence, and ending harmful practices like FGM and child marriage, Kelej makes the effort to work on subjects she is passionate about. After all, she is more than just the CEO of Merck Foundation—she has undertaken innovative initiatives spanning education, fashion, art, and media, across Africa.
In an interaction, Dr. Kelej shares her journey; the power of creativity, and her mission to empower women and girls through her meaningful work.
You have used fashion and art as tools for raising awareness about social and health issues. How did this idea come to life?
Dr. Rasha Kelej: Africa is a continent bursting with culture, colour, and creativity. I have always admired art and fashion and strongly believe they should serve a purpose beyond entertainment. If utilised effectively, they can be powerful tools to drive a cultural shift—transforming complex issues into relatable and impactful conversations. This belief led me to integrate fashion, music, film, and media into initiatives aimed at sensitising communities about critical issues.
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Your TV programme Our Africa has gained popularity. Could you tell us about it and some of your other creative initiatives?
Dr. Rasha Kelej: Our Africa is one of our most impactful initiatives. Conceptualised and hosted by me, each episode highlights a unique social or health issue, featuring fashion designers who create thought-provoking designs, alongside singers and prominent guests from over 20 African countries. Aired on prime TV stations across Africa, the programme has received tremendous feedback, proving that entertainment can be a powerful tool for education and change.
Beyond Our Africa, we launch eight annual awards recognising excellence in media, fashion, song, and film—encouraging young talent to address these pressing issues. We’ve also created children’s storybooks, animation films, and over 30 songs with African artists, each carrying powerful messages to inspire change.
Could you tell us more about your More Than A Mother campaign?
Dr. Rasha Kelej: I launched More Than a Mother in 2015 as a movement to empower women facing infertility stigma. It focuses on providing access to information, education, mindset change, and economic empowerment while raising awareness about infertility prevention, management, and male infertility.
I am honoured to have collaborated with over 28 African and Asian First Ladies, who serve as Ambassadors for this movement. Over the past seven years, we have worked together to break the stigma surrounding infertility and build fertility care capacity in their respective countries. As part of this initiative, we have awarded over 650 scholarships in embryology, fertility, and reproductive care—ensuring that more couples have access to quality fertility treatment. This is part of the 2,250+ scholarships we have provided in 44 critical medical specialties to doctors from 52 countries.
You are passionate about girls’ education. Tell us about your efforts in this space.
Dr. Rasha Kelej: I strongly believe that when girls are educated, their countries become more powerful, stronger, and more prosperous. Through our Educating Linda programme, we provide scholarships and school essentials to thousands of underprivileged girls—many of whom face financial hardship, early marriage, or societal pressure to drop out of school.
Together with African First Ladies, we have sponsored the education of over 700 brilliant yet disadvantaged girls, ensuring they complete their studies. Additionally, we actively educate African communities and raise awareness about the importance of supporting girls’ education through our various outreach programmes.
What is your message to young girls inspired by your work?
Dr. Rasha Kelej: To every young girl reading this: Never let anyone tell you that your dreams are too big or that you are not enough. I started with a dream, and today, it is a vision realised through leading one of the most impactful foundations transforming millions of lives.
No dream is too ambitious. Believe in your potential, embrace your creativity, and use your voice to make a difference. The world needs more young women who are fearless, innovative, and determined to shape a better future.
To learn about the journey of Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, visit her Instagram, Facebook, X, and Youtube.
