Pharrell Williams Named UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador

American musician Pharrell Williams (51) received a rare award. He was named UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for arts education and entrepreneurship at a ceremony in Paris, France, Thursday (12/17/2024).

Williams' new role at UNESCO will involve promoting a range of initiatives, including the protection of indigenous cultures, the protection of cultural heritage, and the advancement of education. She will also work on issues of health care for women and raising awareness about genocide prevention.

“Growing up in Virginia, I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be given an opportunity like this. (I hope to) deepen the sense of unity and togetherness by doing work that equalizes opportunities for marginalized communities,” Williams said.

Born into a poor family, Williams grew up to be a renowned singer, producer, and songwriter. He has won 13 Grammy Awards and numerous other awards. His songs, such as “Happy” (2013), resonate with the world.

In a statement, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay called Williams a complete artist and humanist who worked to put culture at the service of peace and bring people together and believed in the power of creativity and education to build a better future.

“His commitment is in line with UNESCO’s mandate. I am delighted that he joins the UNESCO Ambassadors’ family today to support our actions,” Azoulay said.

Williams is the latest artist to become a UNESCO ambassador, following K-pop group Seventeen, jazz musician Herbie Hancock and several other artists.

“Words cannot express how I feel about being selected by UNESCO as an ambassador,” Williams said. (BILLBOARD/UNESCO.ORG)