Geneva/New York, 21 May – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is proud to announce the appointment of renowned television and film actress and social activist America Ferrera as its new Global Goodwill Ambassador.

Ferrera is an Oscar-nominated and Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Award-winning celebrated actress, director, and producer, known for her many iconic roles in TV and film including Ugly Betty, Real Women Have Curves, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Superstore, and most recently, the history-making Barbie, for which she garnered her first Academy Award nomination. 

“I could not be more honored to be entrusted with the role of IOM's Global Goodwill Ambassador,” said America Ferrera. “I'm so excited for the opportunity to continue amplifying stories that move us towards better and safer solutions for global migration.” 

“The issue of migration has always been so close to my heart. As an advocate, I’ve spent years listening and learning about the experiences and struggles of migrants, and I've had the privilege of witnessing the great value they have to contribute as they pursue happy and healthy lives for themselves and their families. This issue means a great deal to me personally, as I am the daughter of Honduran immigrants to the U.S. and my story is a migration story,” she added.

As a Global Goodwill Ambassador, Ferrera intends to continue speaking on issues she has been involved with in the past, including migration, women’s rights, amplifying underrepresented voices, and community engagement.

“IOM is delighted to welcome America Ferrera as our Global Goodwill Ambassador,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “Her dedication to migrant issues, especially those affecting women, is truly inspiring. We look forward to working together to raise awareness of the benefits and opportunities of migration, for women and the millions of people on the move worldwide.”

The announcement was made today in New York, during IOM’s International Dialogue on Migration. 

America Ferrera joins Olympic champion and long-distance runner Sir Mo Farah as IOM’s first-ever Global Goodwill Ambassadors, as well as nine Regional and National Goodwill Ambassadors.

About IOM

Established in 1951, IOM – UN Migration is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration and is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. IOM joined the United Nations system as a related organization in 2016.

Resources

For more on IOM’s Goodwill Ambassador Programme, please visit: https://www.iom.int/iom-goodwill-ambassador-programme

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For media inquiries, please contact: 

Zoe Brennan, IOM Headquarters, zbrennan@iom.int

For Spanish-speaking media:

Jorge Gallo, Regional Media and Communications Officer, IOM Regional Office for Central, North America and the Caribbean, jgallo@iom.int