UNICEF people
Real Lives: The impact of UNICEF's work; on individuals, communities and families
Goodwill Ambassadors: Celebrities committed to children; the positive power of fame
Celebrity Advocates: Celebrities committed to children; the positive power of fame What qualifies a singer, actor or athlete to represent UNICEF? And what good can celebrities really do to aid our work for children? UNICEF’s celebrities have a wide range of talents and achievements, but they all share a commitment to improving the lives of children worldwide. And in each case a celebrity’s association with UNICEF comes about because he or she has already demonstrated that commitment. Fame has some clear benefits in certain roles with UNICEF. Celebrities attract attention, so they are in a position to focus the world’s eyes on the needs of children, both in their own countries and by visiting field projects and emergency programmes abroad. In supporting UNICEF, celebrities also engage in the process of building up their own lifetime humanitarian profiles that augur well for their status and image throughout their career. They can make direct representations to those with the power to effect change. They can use their talents and fame to fundraise and advocate for children and support UNICEF’s mission to ensure every child’s right to health, education, equality and protection. They can lead by example and point the way as positive role models for a whole generation of children and young people UNICEF was the first of many ‘causes’ to enlist the help of celebrities. Danny Kaye, the beloved American comedian, actor and great children’s entertainer, pioneered the role of Ambassador-at-Large for UNICEF back in 1954. The role was later taken on by Audrey Hepburn, Harry Belafonte, Sir Roger Moore and others, building up to the current distinguished roster of international, regional and national goodwill ambassadors that proudly support our work for children of the world.
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