Serena Williams Appointed Goodwill Ambassador

A week ahead of her birthday, Serena Williams has been made a goodwill ambassador for the children’s charity UNICEF.

Williams turns 30 (she was born September 26th, 1981) and the tennis pro received the honor last week- the charity said her “generous philanthropic endeavors off the court are just as dynamic [as her tennis skills.]” Although Williams has worked with UNICEF before, taking part in an initiative in 2006 in Ghana to provide medical care for ailing kids, she joins previous ambassadors such as David Beckham and Audrey Hepburn in her new role as a goodwill ambassador with the charity.

UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake extended a welcome to the tennis pro during the 2nd Annual Social Good Summit in New York City last week. Lake said:

“Serena Williams isn’t just a world tennis champion, she is a champion for children — and a passionate advocate for providing every child with a quality education… We are delighted that Serena is joining us as UNICEF’s newest Goodwill Ambassador and look forward to working together to win for children.”

Williams herself commented on the appointment, for which she will use her star power to shine light on the plights of children in developing nations:

“I believe all children deserve the chance to make something of their lives… I am committed to helping UNICEF provide a quality education to children to help them build a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.”

In their announcement last week, UNICEF notes that the tennis ace has won “13 career Grand Slams and was a Gold Medalist at the 2000 and 2008 Olympics.”