Deadline: 30-Oct-2026
The Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 invites African filmmakers, students, and young talents to submit short or long films that promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension prevention and early detection. Films can be in English, French, Portuguese, or Arabic, with each category offering a $500 USD prize. Submissions are due by 30 October 2026 via YouTube link.
Overview of the Awards
The Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 aim to recognize and reward African filmmakers and young talents who create impactful, educational, and engaging films promoting public health awareness.
Objectives
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Promote healthy lifestyle practices
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Raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension
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Encourage creative storytelling through drama, documentary, or docudrama formats
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Empower young African filmmakers and students
Eligible Participants
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African Filmmakers
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Students from film-making training institutions
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Young talents across Africa
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Films may be long or short, in drama, documentary, or docudrama format
Film Categories and Prizes
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Languages: English, French, Portuguese, Arabic
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Prize: USD 500 per category
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Multiple winners may be selected based on quality of submissions
Submission Guidelines
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Submit your film as a YouTube link.
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Email the submission with the subject line:
Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension” -
Include in the email:
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Applicant’s name
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Institution (if applicable)
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Country
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Language
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Contact details
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Ensure submissions are sent by 30 October 2026.
Selection Criteria
Films will be evaluated on:
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Ability to convey accurate and powerful health messages
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Clarity and community relevance
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Creativity and engagement
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Impact in raising awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension
Winner Announcement
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Winners will be personally notified via email
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Public announcement via press releases and Merck Foundation platforms
Tips for Applicants
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Focus on clear, simple, and relatable messaging.
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Use storytelling to engage and educate audiences.
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Ensure video quality is suitable for online viewing.
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Highlight prevention, early detection, and healthy lifestyle practices.
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Encourage shareable content to maximize public awareness.
FAQ
1. Who can submit films?
African filmmakers, film students, and young talents across Africa.
2. What types of films are eligible?
Drama, documentary, or docudrama formats, either short or long films.
3. What languages are accepted?
English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic.
4. How is the film submitted?
Via YouTube link emailed with the specified subject line and required details.
5. What is the prize?
USD 500 per language category, with the possibility of multiple winners.
6. What is the submission deadline?
30 October 2026.
7. How will winners be notified?
By email, followed by a public announcement through press releases and Merck Foundation platforms.
Conclusion
The Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 provide African filmmakers and young talents an opportunity to create impactful films promoting healthy lifestyles and increasing awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension. Through creative storytelling, these films can educate communities, influence behavior, and inspire public health action across Africa.
For more information, visit Merck Foundation.