These individuals embody the diversity of talents and backgrounds that enrich UNESCO's work," stated Audrey Azoulay. "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.
Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General
Gael García Bernal, Goodwill Ambassador for Culture and Arts Education
Actor, director, and producer Gael García Bernal is a prominent figure in international cinema. Through the cultural initiatives of the NGO 'Ambulante' that he co-founded in 2005, he advocates for documentary film as a tool for social and cultural transformation, making it accessible to audiences who are traditionally marginalised from such content. Deeply convinced of the central role of culture in societal development, he will place his influence and expertise at the service of UNESCO's initiatives in culture and arts education.
"I am very proud and deeply honored to have been appointed as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. Today, more than ever, we need to work together. The whole world needs to raise and discuss issues for the common good. We must build community through all cultural expressions. I am deeply grateful for this invitation and I hope that my contribution will be meaningful, working alongside everyone who is part of UNESCO." - Gael García Bernal
Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture
University president and publisher Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi leads several initiatives aimed at financing and fostering book and cultural development. She currently serves as president of the American University of Sharjah and formerly presided over the International Publishers Association. She actively promotes reading, publishing, and youth innovation and entrepreneurship. A native of the Emirate of Sharjah - named World Book Capital by UNESCO in 2019 - she will support the advancement of this flagship programme of the Organization.
"I am deeply honored to join UNESCO's mission as a Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture. Books have the power to open minds, bridge divides, and build resilient, knowledge-driven societies. In a world of rapid change, investing in literacy, education, and access to culture is not optional. It is essential. This role is both a responsibility and a continuation of my commitment to advancing empowerment through books, education, and cultural engagement. I look forward to working closely with UNESCO to champion these values and help expand opportunities for learning and creative expression around the world." - Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi
Ibrahim Magassa, Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO's Global Priority Africa
Ivorian banker and philanthropist Ibrahim Magassa, who chairs an investment bank, has specialized in the innovative financing of major strategic public and private projects across Africa. As a beneficiary in his youth of UNESCO's educational programmes in Grand-Bassam, he is now committed to promoting access to education and entrepreneurship for African youth. He will contribute to the implementation of UNESCO's programmes in Africa, supporting initiatives in education, Campus Africa, new technologies, and cultural heritage.
"The most beneficial investment and the most powerful means we can use to change the world is education. UNESCO, which perfectly embodies this truth, is the legitimate organization to continue advancing this cause, as well as the five flagship programs of the Priority Africa initiative. As an Goodwill Ambassador, I am committed to helping implement this while mobilizing financial and global actors in a world full of urgent and complex challenges." - Ibrahim Magassa
Costantza Sbokou-Constantakopoulou, Goodwill Ambassador for the Protection and Promotion of Culture
Architect, entrepreneur, and Chair of 'Endeavor Greece', Costantza Sbokou-Constantakopoulou champions the integration of creativity and innovation at the heart of sustainable development. An advocate for the preservation of Mediterranean cultural heritage, she will contribute her expertise to UNESCO programmes dedicated to safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage.
"In these challenging times of global conflict and crises, the need to safeguard our cultural heritage is more urgent than ever. As a Goodwill Ambassador, I aim to support and promote respect for cultural diversity and human creativity, building bridges that connect people and pave the way towards a more peaceful world." - Costantza Sbokou-Constantakopoulou
Goodwill Ambassadors
UNESCO Goodwill Ambassadors and Artists for Peace are distinguished individuals who lend their voice and influence in support of the Organization's ideals and programmes.
The four personalities announced today join a distinguished group appointed in recent years by Audrey Azoulay, including: Nadia Nadim (2018); Yalitza Aparicio (2019); Renaud Capuçon (2020); Luigi Toscano, Barthélémy Toguo, and Naomi Kawase (2021); Rossy de Palma, Xueli Abbing, Maya Gabeira, The HU and Mauro Colagreco (2022); SEVENTEEN, Daniel Humm, Vinícius Junior, Eliud Kipchoge, and Pharrell Williams (2024); and now Gael García Bernal, Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Ibrahim Magassa, and Costantza Sbokou-Constantakopoulou in 2025.
About UNESCO
With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.
"Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed" - UNESCO Constitution, 1945.
