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Pharrell Williams, the acclaimed singer-songwriter and producer, has been appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Paris on December 17th. This prestigious role will see Williams championing artistic education and entrepreneurship, focusing on initiatives that protect indigenous cultures, advance women’s education and healthcare, and raise awareness about genocide prevention and cultural heritage preservation.
Williams, reflecting on his humble beginnings in Virginia, expressed his deep honor at the appointment, stating his hope to foster unity and improve opportunities for marginalized communities. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay praised Williams as a humanist artist committed to using culture to build peace and bridge divides, highlighting his belief in the transformative power of creativity and education.
In his new capacity, Williams will mentor young creators, particularly in Africa, where UNESCO actively supports the development of cultural industries. He joins a distinguished roster of Goodwill Ambassadors, including K-pop group Seventeen and jazz legend Herbie Hancock. To mark the occasion, Williams screened his LEGO biopic, Piece by Piece, for 800 students at UNESCO headquarters, a location he also chose for his June Louis Vuitton menswear fashion show. The artist described his selection as an overwhelming honor.
