All Fashion Designers are invited to create a design with the aim to deliver strong and influential messages. Especially, To empower infertile women and say “No to Infertility Stigma”. Designs ideas can also deliver messages to encourage men to speak openly about their infertility. Additionally, because 50% of infertility cases are due to male factor. “Merck More Than a Mother” initiative aims to empower infertile women through access to information, education, and health and by changing mindsets. This powerful initiative supports governments in defining policies. To enhance access to regulated, safe and effective fertility care.

It defines interventions to break the stigma around infertile women and raises awareness about infertility prevention and management. In partnership with academia, ministries of health and international fertility societies, the initiative. Also, provides medical education and training for healthcare providers and embryologists to build and advance fertility care capacity in Africa and developing countries.

Further, With “Merck More than a mother”, we have initiated a cultural shift to de-stigmatize infertility on all levels: By improving awareness, training the skills of local experts, building advocacy in cooperation with decision makers and by supporting childless women in starting their own small business. It’s all about giving every woman the respect and the help she deserves to live a fulfilling life, with or without a child.

Vision

A World where everyone can lead a Healthy and Fulfilling Life

The Merck Foundation is the Philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany. It is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Further, empowering people in STEM* with a special focus on Women and Youth.

Benefit

• The best 10 submissions will get selected by ‘Merck More Than a Mother’ committee.
• Winners will get $500 each to execute their designs. Also, will have an opportunity to exhibit them during the Zambia Fashion Week which will be conducted in Lusaka. Also, the model will get his or her winning outfit.

Eligibility

• All Fashion Designers from Zambia are eligible to apply