I have been an avid reader of Vogue, and being featured by Vogue India, for the second time, is an honour I receive with sincere appreciation. The latest feature, titled “Empowering Change: Dr. Rasha Kelej’s Vision for Women-Led Development,” reflects the breadth of work and sustained commitment of Merck Foundation towards advancing women-led development, supporting girls’ education, and empowering communities across Africa and beyond.
The feature captures a conviction that I strongly believe in: that women do not need to compromise their individuality or femininity to be effective leaders, both can coexist seamlessly.
The feature goes on to write about me and my personal style. I truly believe that leadership today is multidimensional — it is not only about the decisions we make, but also about the way we carry ourselves and represent our mission. For me, fashion is a form of communication and self-expression. It defines my style as elegant and carefully curated, reflecting my personality, confidence, and the values I stand for as a woman and as a leader.
I have shared my learnings and takeaways from my work and journey — to never give up and always be yourself. Be consistent, persistent, and disciplined, not only in your work commitments and goals, but also in your personal life, such as daily exercise, healthy eating, and self-development, to stay relevant. Most importantly, practice daily stress management, which is the key to sustainable high performance.
I was also pleased to share with Vogue the work we are doing together with 33 African and Asian First Ladies to empower women and transform lives across Africa and beyond. I have also spoken about my strong commitment to supporting women in healthcare and STEM through Merck Foundation Scholarships Program. Till today, we have provided more than 2,600 scholarships for healthcare professionals from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialities, with nearly half awarded to women. I strongly believe that by empowering women to become specialists and leaders, we can strengthen healthcare systems and create lasting impact for future generations.
I also shared my belief that girls’ education is the foundation of women’s empowerment. Through our “Educating Linda” program, in partnership with the African and Asian First Ladies, we are providing 1,500 scholarships annually to underprivileged schoolgirls from 21 countries, helping them continue their education, achieve their potential, and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
The feature also captures the purpose behind creating the “More Than a Mother” campaign, which I launched to empower women suffering from infertility stigma through access to information, education, health, and a change in mindset.
I also shared that meaningful change requires a cultural shift, hence I use creative platforms such as music, animation, storybooks, fashion, and media initiatives to raise awareness about important social and health issues.
I invite you to read the full article here.
Kind Regards
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.)
CEO of Merck Foundation
President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation with H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, First Lady of the Central African Republic and H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, First Lady of The Gambia.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation with H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, First Lady of Angola, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, First Lady of Gabon and H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation with H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, First Lady of Mozambique, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, First Lady of The Gambia and H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of Nigeria.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation with H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe and H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, First Lady of Cabo Verde.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation with H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE, First Lady of Burundi and H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of Senegal.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation with H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, First Lady of The Gambia, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, First Lady of Gabon, H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, First Lady of the Central African Republic and H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of Maldives.