Katy Perry's Mission

Katy Perry's Mission

Source: http://www.timeforkids.com

The pop singer is using her global popularity for good as UNICEF's newest ambassador

Katy Perry is a world-renowned pop superstar, fashion icon, and Grammy Award nominee for her hit song “Roar." Now, she adds a new title to her list of achievements: UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Perry was appointed to the title on December 3 at UNICEF Headquarters, in New York City. UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake announced that her special focus is to engage young people to help with UNICEFʼs work. “Katy Perry is already a champion for children, and we look forward to hearing her ʻroarʼ on behalf of UNICEF,” Lake said. TFK Kid Reporter Grace Clark was on the scene to report on the announcement and talk to the chart-topping singer about her new role

 

Katy Perry talks to twin girls during a visit to a nutritional center in the village of Androrangavola, Madagascar. Perry visited the country for a UNICEF trip in April.

Being a UNICEF Ambassador, Perry told TFK, "means that I have a responsibility to use my spotlight for good, to highlight areas where I can help children who are disadvantaged, or in a tough situation. I hope I can help them out of that tough situation."

Mission for Good

UNICEF is an acronym for United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund. The charity works in more than 190 countries and territories to help children who do not have access to safe food, clean drinking water, and health care. They also actively work to stop violence against children.

UNICEF appoints celebrity ambassadors like Perry to heighten awareness through their popularity and talent. Other ambassadors include actress Sarah Jessica Parker, chef Marcus Samuelsson, and actress-singer Selena Gomez.

Before becoming an official ambassador, Perry took her first trip with UNICEF in April to Madagascar, an island country in Africa. She spent three days visiting kids and learning about UNICEF programs there. Perry says the trip was a “life changing experience” and the inspiration for her new song, “Unconditionally.”

Katy Perry jumps rope with girls during a visit to a primary school that was rebuilt by UNICEF after it was destroyed by a cyclone, in Ampihaonana, Madagascar.

“Childhood is getting interrupted by unfortunate events, whether it's violence or devastation,” Perry told TFK. “Until you become an adult and take responsibility for yourself, I think we [adults] should look after you, make sure you are well nourished, educated, and clothed.”

Perry plans to go on more trips with UNICEF to inspire and help children in need.  "Every year, I want to go on a trip and have the experience to bring home,” Perry says. “Maybe when people hear my songs and hear about my wonderful trips with UNICEF, they will want to go as well,