In a move that bolsters the Philippine representation on the global stage, esteemed Filipina broadcast journalist Karen Davila has been named the United Nations Women’s first-ever goodwill ambassador from the Philippines. The appointment has put Davila in a league with other globally recognized figures like Anne Hathaway, Nicole Kidman, and Emma Watson, who have lent their influence and time to promote UN Women’s activities.
Prior to her new appointment, Davila has been known to lend her talents to humanitarian aid such as in the teaching of students and supporting workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Role of Goodwill Ambassadors
The concept of enlisting Goodwill Ambassadors for UN programs isn’t new. Since the 1950s, the United Nations has been recruiting prominent individuals from diverse fields—art, sports, literature, and film—to amplify its missions and key activities. These ambassadors aim to advance various objectives, from promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment to fighting against climate change.
A Welcoming Gesture from the Top
Alia El-Yassir, UN Women Regional Director for Asia Pacific, took to Twitter to announce Davila’s appointment on September 22, 2023. El-Yassir tweeted, “Such a pleasure to welcome esteemed journalist Karen Davila as our new Goodwill Ambassador for @UN_Women in the #Philippines . Looking forward to working together to advance gender equality & women’s empowerment! Welcome to our family @iamkarendavila.”
The @UN_Women has welcomed journalist Karen Davila @iamkarendavila as its first Goodwill Ambassador from the Philippines https://t.co/0YesN405WA
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) September 27, 2023
Davila’s Own Take
On her part, Karen Davila conveyed her excitement through a heartfelt social media post on September 23. She narrated her experience, saying, “Yesterday, I was officially welcomed by UN Women Asia Pacific Regional Director Alia El-Yassir as the first UN Women Philippines Goodwill Ambassador serving the country & the region. I honestly didn’t know what to expect but was so surprised with how warm, welcoming everybody was at the UN Asia office!”
Davila further shared her admiration for the expansive operations at the UN offices in Bangkok, as well as the various focal points that UN Women works on—from climate change and ending violence against women to women’s role in governance and economic empowerment.
Karen concluded by stating, “This is the first step of the journey. The final meet is this October at the UN HQ in New York. I am so proud to do this as a Filipina. Thank you @l3n0xky, @elyassiralia, @unwomenasia team and @unwomen for allowing me to contribute in this way.”
Karen Davila shares her experience of being welcomed to the UN Women@iamkarendavila @UN_Women @unwomenasia https://t.co/7ewKcbrFV1
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) September 27, 2023
Why This Matters
This significant appointment showcases not only Davila’s credibility and influence but also the potential of Filipinos to affect positive change on a global scale. Davila’s focus on gender equality aligns well with the UN Women’s mission, making her the perfect candidate to advocate for women’s and girls’ rights not only in the Philippines but also in the Asia Pacific region.
To continue promoting positive stories like this one, SHARE THIS ARTICLE with your network and let the world know that Filipinos are making waves in advocating for global gender equality and women’s empowerment. Let’s celebrate Karen Davila’s achievements and stand by her as she embarks on this significant role.
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