UNICEF calls for young ambassadors via Lach & Friends

UNICEF Aotearoa is on a quest to discover the voices of the future and has teamed up with Lach & Friends to make it happen.

The ‘Show Us Your Voice’ campaign is on the lookout for passionate Young Ambassadors, aged 17-24, who want to make a difference in Aotearoa, the Pacific, and beyond.

Chris Coromandel, Head of New Zealand Programmes and Advocacy, says this is an excellent opportunity for young people to stand up, represent their community, and raise awareness on important issues such as climate change and equality.

“We’ve seen the devastating impacts of cyclone Gabrielle as it ripped through Aotearoa, and more than 1 billion children are at high risk of climate hazards worldwide,” says Coromandel. “We need to ensure that young people are included in discussions as it’s their generation which will be most affected.”

“When you join UNICEF, you’re becoming part of a globally connected whanau. Young Ambassadors will have opportunities to say it straight to decision makers, address the issues that others ignore, inspire their communities, and use their voices to bring about positive change.”

Agency Head Lachlan McPherson says the campaign was guided by a range of ideas from young New Zealanders.

“Digital, social media and street posters feature some of the young people who shared their vision. Many of the issues we thought would affect us in the distant future are beginning to impact us today. New ideas, and new voices, must be part of how society finds solutions.”

The successful applicants will collaborate with UNICEF Aotearoa to drive awareness in their communities and help support solutions to some of the issues young people care about most. Applications close April 2. For more information, visit unicef.org.nz/youngambassadors