UNESCO has appointed Pharrell Williams as its Goodwill Ambassador for Arts Education and Entrepreneurship.
Paris, December 19, 2024 — On Tuesday, Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, appointed Pharrell Williams as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Arts Education and Entrepreneurship during a ceremony at the Organization’s headquarters in Paris.
Renowned as an Academy Award-nominated musician and innovative filmmaker, this talented individual is a dedicated philanthropist and currently serves as the Men’s Creative Director for the prestigious fashion house Louis Vuitton. With an impressive record of 13 Grammy Awards, he is celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the music industry. Since his debut in 2006, his work has garnered billions of streams globally, captivating audiences with infectious hits like “Happy” and “Get Lucky.” His remarkable collaborations with some of the world’s most renowned artists further demonstrate his versatility and artistry, allowing his music to connect with listeners across every continent.
In June 2024, Pharrell Williams selected the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris as the venue for his fourth fashion show as Men’s Creative Director of Louis Vuitton, entitled “The World is Yours.” The American artist emphasized themes of universalism and diversity, with the event featuring the display of the 194 flags representing UNESCO’s Member States.
“Pharrell Williams is a talented artist and a dedicated humanist who strives to use culture to promote peace and unite people. He believes in the transformative power of creativity and education to create a better future. His values align with UNESCO’s mission. I am pleased to announce that he is joining UNESCO’s family of Goodwill Ambassadors today to support our efforts,” remarked UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
“I am deeply honored to be selected by UNESCO as a Goodwill Ambassador. It is challenging to convey the extent of my gratitude for this opportunity. I extend my sincere thanks to Director-General Audrey Azoulay. I look forward to advancing our mission to provide equitable opportunities for children and adults through education, in collaboration with YELLOW and Black Ambition,” Pharrell Williams responded.
To celebrate his nomination, Pharrell Williams addressed 800 secondary school students and fashion, music, and film students at UNESCO Headquarters during a screening of his biopic, “Piece by Piece.”
As part of Audrey Azoulay’s roadmap, Pharrell Williams will represent UNESCO at major international cultural events and support the Organization’s educational and cultural programs worldwide.
As a Goodwill Ambassador, he will serve as a mentor and role model for young creators, particularly in Africa, where UNESCO actively promotes the development of cultural industries.
Source: UNESCO
Pharrell Williams – Happy (Music Video) — (Released in 2013)
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