Emma Watson appointed UN Goodwill Ambassador

Actress Emma Watson of "Harry Potter" fame has been appointed a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador by UN Women, dedicated to gender equality and women's empowerment. Known for playing Hermione Granger in the popular Hollywood franchise, Watson, a recent graduate of Ivy League institution, Brown University, will dedicate her efforts as UN Women Goodwill Ambassador towards the empowerment of young women and will serve as an advocate for UN Women’s HeForShe campaign in promoting gender equality, according to UN Women. She is humbled. "Being asked to serve as UN Women's Goodwill Ambassador is truly humbling. The chance to make a real difference is not an opportunity that everyone is given and is one I have no intention of taking lightly," Watson said. "Women's rights are something so inextricably linked with who I am, so deeply personal and rooted in my life that I can't imagine an opportunity more exciting. I still have so much to learn, but as I progress I hope to bring more of my individual knowledge, experience and awareness to this role," she added. The 24-year-old has been involved in the promotion of girls' education for several years, and previously visited Bangladesh and Zambia as part of her humanitarian efforts. “We're thrilled and honored to work with Emma, whom we believe embodies the values of UN Women,” stated Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, under-secretary-general and executive director, UN Women. “The engagement of young people is critical for the advancement of gender equality in the 21st century, and I am convinced that Emma’s intellect and passion will enable UN Women’s messages to reach the hearts and minds of young people globally,” added Mlambo-Ngcuka. (Source: IANS)