Ambassadors

A History of UNICEF Ambassadors

Danny Kaye turned his star power to the benefit of children everywhere when he became UNICEF's first Goodwill Ambassador in 1954. In doing so, this accomplished actor and comedian helped rewrite the rules of global citizenship and set an example for all future celebrity advocates. Kaye generated immense goodwill for UNICEF while putting the health and development needs of children center stage. He became the public and beloved face of UNICEF for millions of adults and children alike.

Audrey Hepburn may have played her most important role during her tenure as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Before subcommittees in Congress, in the refugee camps of the Sudan, at fundraisers in Geneva, and at clinics in Viet Nam, Hepburn worked tirelessly for the health and safety of the world's children until her death in 1993. UNICEF, and the children she helped, will be forever grateful.

George Harrison turned music into a political and social force long before Band Aid, Live Aid, and Farm Aid. In 1971, the pioneering former Beatle, hearing Ravi Shankar's distress, organized the Concert for Bangladesh. The historic rock concert produced an extraordinary contribution for UNICEF, exceeding $15 million. Perhaps more importantly, it raised the consciousness of other musicians and millions of their young fans to a new awareness of UNICEF and its role in the developing world.  Today, the George Harrison Fund for UNICEF continues this work.