Anniversary Gala« back

Welcoming Message

UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman
I am truly honored that UNIFEM has asked me to serve as Goodwill Ambassador. It's likely my most challenging role, and I know that I have an enormous amount to learn. But by committing myself to what I feel will be a life-long involvement, I can gain the necessary experience to be an effective messenger on UNIFEM's behalf. With the guidance of UNIFEM's Executive Director Noeleen Heyzer, and by meeting and listening to women who face and overcome extraordinary challenges — poverty, war, violence, discrimination — I hope to educate people around the world through my own education.

Commemorating UNIFEM's 30th anniversary provides a special opportunity for me to bring UNIFEM's accomplishments to the attention of a larger audience of concerned citizens. Knowing that so many people have come together this evening, not just to look back on UNIFEM's 30 very impressive years but to look ahead, only strengthens my resolve. My involvement with UNIFEM is providing an amazing avenue for me to contribute what I can to improve women's lives — to bring visibility to their struggles, to their victories, to their challenges, and even to their disappointments. When you have been blessed with a fortunate life, it is very much your duty to find the places where you can give back. I'm so proud to be part of UNIFEM's present and future. And I thank you all for joining with me.