Merck Foundation Announces 'More Than A Mother' Africa Film Awards 2021

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, has announced the call for applications for the 'More Than A Mother' 2021 Africa Film Awards.

The foundation in partnership with African First Ladies is organizing the event to break the infertility stigma and support girl child education in Africa.

Via a press release made available to AllNews Nigeria, it was revealed that the awards are open to all African filmmakers and students.

Participants are invited to "create and share a film or docu-drama to deliver strong and influential messages about breaking infertility stigma, empowering girls and women through education at all levels."

Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and the President of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother said: "We have launched the award in partnership with my dear sisters 20 African First Ladies.

"The aim is to encourage promising filmmakers and new talents across the continent to use their talent to create a film or docu-drama 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.

Merck Foundation CEO Dr. Rasha Kelej

"It takes both a man and a woman to have a child. Also, empower girls and women through education at all levels.

"Films have played a significant role in bringing about a culture shift in society in the world over 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.

"Films are invited in three languages: English, French, and Portuguese."

The Merck Foundation selection committee will select the top three films from the incoming entries.

Speaking further, Kelej added: "Merck Foundation More Than a Mother is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile women through access to information, education, and change of mindset.

"With Merck Foundation More Than a Mother campaign, Merck Foundation has initiated a cultural shift to de-stigmatize infertility and empower women and girls through education at all levels.

"Filmmakers, it’s time to showcase your talent and contribute towards making a difference in society with your unique films with strong and relevant messages about infertility stigma and women empowerment, especially infertile and childless women. And to also showcase the importance of girl education."

The submission deadline for all entries is August 30, 2021, and filmmakers are to share their works as YouTube links on  [email protected].

The subject of the mail should be Merck Foundation FILM Awards “More Than a Mother” 2021, with the following details provided as well; name, institution name, country, and contact details.

The prize money for the three winners is $1,000 for the first position, $700 for the second position, and $500 for the third position.

For additional information, interested parties can visit www.Merck-Foundation.com.