New york: Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, is marking World Art Day 2026 by spotlighting the efforts of their Pan-African Art and Fashion with Purpose community. This initiative, established by Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, is celebrating its 6-year anniversary and continues to utilize art and fashion as tools to tackle significant health and social issues across Africa and beyond. According to African Press Organization, Dr. Rasha Kelej, who has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans from 2019 to 2025, emphasized the power of art, fashion, and media in raising awareness on crucial social and health matters. The Fashion and Art with Purpose Community, inaugurated in 2020, has successfully addressed issues such as infertility stigma, girl education, female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, gender-based violence, women empowerment, and health awareness about diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. The community comprises talented members from over 25 countries, contributing to a significant cultural shift. Merck Foundation's initiatives include the pioneering pan-African TV program, "Our Africa by Merck Foundation," which highlights pressing issues through the voices of their community members. Conceptualized and co-hosted by Dr. Kelej, the program features African fashion designers, singers, and experts, and has captivated millions across the continent. It is widely broadcasted and accessible via the social media platforms of both Dr. Kelej and the Merck Foundation. In collaboration with the First Ladies of Africa, Merck Foundation annually announces eight awards targeting media, fashion designers, filmmakers, musicians, and young African talents. These awards are focused on breaking infertility stigma, supporting girls' education, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The foundation has recognized 175 exceptional talents through these awards, fostering a community that uses art and influence to challenge perceptions and raise awarene ss on sensitive issues. Merck Foundation has also created over 30 songs with African artists in various languages to address critical issues, launched nine children's storybooks, and adapted these into animation films to enhance community outreach and instill change at grassroots levels. These resources are available to the public, aiming to educate and inspire transformative societal changes.