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Global Leaders Join UNESCO as Goodwill Ambassadors

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UNESCO Welcomes Four New Goodwill Ambassadors

Opening ceremony of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference. October 30, 2025. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Firuz Tashpulatov.
Opening ceremony of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference. October 30, 2025. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Firuz Tashpulatov.

On October 28, 2025, UNESCO announced that Audrey Azoulay appointed four distinguished international personalities as new Goodwill Ambassadors, tasked with advancing UNESCO’s mission in education, culture, heritage, and innovation.

Meet the Appointees

  • Gael García Bernal (Mexico) – Actor, director, and producer; appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for Culture and Arts Education. He co-founded the documentary film initiative “Ambulante” and is deeply committed to using culture as a tool for social transformation.

  • Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi (UAE) – University president and publisher; designated as a Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture. She leads initiatives that promote reading, publishing, and youth innovation, particularly in her home emirate of Sharjah.

  • Ibrahim Magassa (Côte d’Ivoire) – Banker and philanthropist with experience in financing strategic projects across Africa; named Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO’s “Global Priority Africa” segment. His personal journey includes participation in UNESCO’s educational programs.

  • Costantza Sbokou‑Constantakopoulou (Greece) – Architect and entrepreneur, and an advocate for Mediterranean cultural heritage; appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Protection and Promotion of Culture.

Why This Matters


In Azoulay’s words:

“These individuals embody the diversity of talents and backgrounds that enrich UNESCO’s work. Through their influence, creativity, and commitment, these Goodwill Ambassadors will help convey the Organization’s messages within civil society – among youth, innovators, researchers, artists, businesses, and all those shaping the world of tomorrow.”

This initiative demonstrates UNESCO’s strategy to expand its influence by collaborating with influential figures whose work encompasses education, culture, innovation, and social entrepreneurship. It reaffirms UNESCO’s core mission: to use culture and knowledge as tools for promoting peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.

What to Watch For

  • Each ambassador has a specific thematic focus area, such as arts education, book culture and literacy, Africa-youth innovation, and heritage protection, suggesting targeted initiatives in these domains.

  • Their global profiles and networks can help UNESCO reach new audiences, including youth, creative sectors, and private and philanthropic organizations.

  • The appointment highlights UNESCO’s commitment to promoting a diversity of voices from different continents, sectors, and perspectives.

  • For stakeholders in India and beyond, this presents opportunities for potential partnerships or programs that connect the ambassadors’ areas of expertise with UNESCO’s ongoing efforts at local and regional levels.

Conclusion

This announcement goes beyond a mere ceremonial gesture. By selecting four activist leaders from various sectors, UNESCO is enhancing its global influence through individuals who genuinely embody its values. For those of us interested in culture, education, and development, this presents opportunities for exciting collaborations, innovative campaigns, and new narratives that highlight global impact.

Source: UNESCO