Illustration of a girl looking at herself in a large mirror. Next to her stands a confident-looking woman with pink hair, a short skirt, a crop top, and a green fur jacket. The scene symbolizes the influence of beauty ideals and self-image. In the top right corner, a pink circle displays the text “AWARD-WINNING.”

Eating Disorders and Prevention

Ninette – Thin is never thin enough

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An interactive project on eating disorders

ninette.berlin/mainsite/index-en.html

Mindfulness

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Storytelling against eating disorders – Ninette reaches young audiences directly

The project Ninette is aimed at girls between the ages of twelve and fifteen and provides both preventive and engaging information about anorexia. Told from the perspective of the target group, it follows the story of 14-year-old Janette, who develops anorexia but finds her way back to life through therapy and the support of friends and family.

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Illustration of an oversized, menacing woman with long hair and a green dress, controlling a marionette. The puppet is an emaciated girl in a pink dress, hanging on strings and moving helplessly.

Ninette Project Trailer

An open approach to eating disorders is an important first step. Many affected individuals, their families, and friends often hesitate to talk about it.
Hermann Gröhe, Federal Minister of Health (2013–2018)

Ninette was developed in close collaboration with experts in prevention, health communication, and youth counseling.

Together with the Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA) and specialists from clinics and counseling centers, a well-founded program was created, tailored specifically to the needs of young people.

Methodologically, the project combines narrative storytelling with complementary information modules: the comic story conveys the emotional core of an eating disorder, while additional articles, podcasts, and interactive tests provide concrete facts, support services, and opportunities for reflection. In this way, Ninette bridges emotional identification with a character and scientifically verified education – making knowledge more accessible and lowering barriers to counseling.

Those interested in the project’s background can find an in-depth interview here.

The vast majority of users rate the project as positive and well-suited to raising awareness about anorexia.
University Hospital Jena

Illustration of a park scene: Three girls are sitting on a bench, laughing together, while a group of boys stands in the background talking. On the left, a trash can with graffiti, and in the background, green trees and bushes.

Illustration of a girl in a yellow top sitting at a table, holding a spoonful of food. Behind her, a dark, menacing silhouette appears, covering her mouth with a hand.

Illustration of a young woman shown in three stages labeled May, June, and July. She appears increasingly emaciated and exhausted each month, with a small plate of food in front of her.

Illustration of a young woman in underwear standing in a bathroom, looking thoughtfully at her stomach in the mirror.

A scene from the first episode of the interactive graphic novel

Ninette battling anorexia …

a disease that leaves its mark.

Ninette - Thin is never thin enough

A scene from the first episode of the interactive graphic novel

Ninette battling anorexia …

a disease that leaves its mark.

Ninette - Thin is never thin enough

A scene from the first episode of the interactive graphic novel

Ninette battling anorexia …

a disease that leaves its mark.

Ninette - Thin is never thin enough

Formats

Ninette combines storytelling, information, and practical support into a comprehensive prevention project.

From digital education to recognised prevention

The project’s relevance was also reflected in public recognition: under the patronage of then Federal Minister of Health Hermann Gröhe, Ninette was launched as a nationally noted prevention initiative. The project was also nominated several times for the prestigious Grimme Online Award – underlining its quality in digital education and awareness.

Made possible by Ingvild Goetz Philanthropy and Beyond Philanthropy – invest impact GmbH, both longstanding supporters of art, social engagement, and impact-driven initiatives.

Sensitive and entertaining, the project addresses a highly relevant topic for young girls in a way that truly speaks to its audience.
From the jury statement of the Grimme Online Award

As a unique nationwide digital prevention initiative, Ninette reached young people where they spend their time — online.

By combining complementary formats, the project reached a sensitive target group that is otherwise difficult to engage.

Moreover, Ninette was used as a practical tool in schools and health institutions, providing teachers, parents, and professionals with a foundation for education and dialogue. In doing so, the project not only fostered individual awareness but also encouraged a more open societal conversation about eating disorders.

Ninette thus exemplified the IMF’s mission to use digital media for socially relevant issues — creating content that informs and generates lasting impact.