Call for Grant Proposals: Leprosy Awareness Collaboration with Miss and Mr. Supranational

Through its grant program, Sasakawa Health Foundation is committed to promoting projects aimed at building a world where leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is no longer an issue, stigma and discrimination are eliminated, and persons affected by leprosy can access the treatment and services they need. This year, we are pleased to announce a special grant opportunity for projects collaborating with Miss and Mr. Supranational to raise awareness about leprosy.

Miss and Mr. Supranational, two international beauty competitions launched in Poland in 2009 and 2016 respectively, are renowned for their “From the Ground Up Community Service Initiative,” which emphasizes social contribution over physical beauty. All contestants are encouraged to use the most valuable resource they have—time—to make an impact in their communities. Since 2023, Miss Supranational winners have actively collaborated with us to raise awareness about leprosy and fight discrimination. (Related airticle_1, Rerated article_2) This grant opportunity seeks to further leverage the global reach of Miss and Mr. Supranational for this important cause.

The current titleholders are Miss Harashta Haifa Zahra, an environmental engineering student from Indonesia, and Mr. Fezile Mkhize, a medical doctor and actor from South Africa. You can access their introductory PDFs for more details. (Miss Zahra, Mr. Mkhize)

Application Guidelines
  1. Application Period
    October 1, 2024 – October 20, 2024
  2. Period of Support
    December 1, 2024 – March 10, 2025
  3. Areas of Support
    We support projects aimed at raising awareness about leprosy in collaboration with Miss or Mr. Supranational, with the goal of reducing stigma, promoting understanding, improving access to medications, and empowering persons affected by leprosy. Proposals may include, but are not limited to:
    • Public campaigns, social media initiatives, and outreach activities
    • Educational workshops or community events
    • Collaborative efforts with Miss or Mr. Supranational to engage key stakeholders and spread awareness about leprosy
    You can see a report on previous leprosy awareness activities conducted in collaboration with Miss Supranational in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, alongside PerMaTa and YDTI.
  4. Eligible Applicants
    • Non-profit organizations, including educational, medical, government and research institutions.
    • Applicant organizations must have a bank account capable of receiving the grant.
    Note: We do not accept applications from individuals or for-profit organizations.
  5. Examination Criteria
    Applications will be assessed based on the following:
    • The reliability of the organization (track record, appropriate information disclosure, and the ability to achieve project goals)
    • Ability to submit reports and communicate in English
    • Clear, appropriate project objectives with high potential for impact
  6. Eligible Expenses
    Expenses necessary to carry out the awareness activities, including costs related to campaign materials, event organization, and communication efforts. Management costs must not exceed 10% of project costs.
    Note: Receipts or proof of all expenditures must be provided. Travel expenses for Miss or Mr. Supranational participants will be covered by SHF.
  7. Amount of Support
    Anticipated grant amount is up to US$20,000
    The number of projects to be supported will be approximately four, two each for Miss and Mister.
    Note: Travel costs for Miss and Mr. Supranational participants will be covered separately by SHF.
  8. Application Procedure
    Please submit your proposal by filling out the Grant Application Form. You can download Draft Form【Excel】to prepare your application. If shortlisted, you will be invited to an online interview by November 5, 2024.
  9. Handling of Personal Information
    Personal information collected during the grant application process will be used for administrative purposes related to the grant, in accordance with our privacy policy.

Contact
For any inquiries regarding these application guidelines, please contact us at: grant@shf.or.jp