Ashley Park Named Goodwill Ambassador by the UN World Food Programme to Combat Global Hunger

Ashley Park Named Goodwill Ambassador by the United Nations World Food Programme

In a significant move amidst growing humanitarian crises, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has appointed Ashley Park as its latest Goodwill Ambassador. Known for her outstanding performances in theatre and television, including her role in the hit Netflix series Emily in Paris, Park aims to leverage her influence to spotlight the urgent issue of global hunger, which affects over 300 million people, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable populations including women and children.

A New Voice for Hunger Relief

On October 8, 2025, the WFP announced this collaboration, highlighting Park's commitment to raising awareness about the dire situation many families face due to food scarcity. Her role will focus on mobilizing support and resources necessary for WFP’s crucial programs aimed at delivering emergency food assistance across more than 120 countries. Park is poised to become a vital part of WFP’s mission to inspire action among younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who are becoming increasingly engaged in global social issues.

“I am truly honored and humbled to become a World Food Programme Goodwill Ambassador,” stated Park during the announcement. She expressed her eagerness to elevate the voices of those most affected by hunger, stating, “While ending hunger can seem overwhelming or hopeless, I know it's possible after seeing firsthand the expertise, scale and impact of WFP's work.” Park urged her audience to learn more and contribute to WFP’s mission, emphasizing that the basic human right of access to food is a foundation for the hopes and potential of millions.

Driving Fundraising Efforts

Ashley Park’s dedication to this cause is evident through her past initiatives. Her fundraising campaign focused on the hunger crisis in Sudan successfully raised over $500,000, providing one million life-saving meals to affected communities. Furthermore, she has actively sought nutritional support for malnourished mothers and children, showcasing her deep-seated commitment to alleviating hunger.

During her recent visit to WFP’s headquarters in Rome, Park engaged directly with WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain and other leaders, gaining insights into various programs that include emergency food assistance, school feeding initiatives, and nutritional support for vulnerable groups. Notably, she collaborated with fellow Ambassador Michael Kors for World Food Day 2024, where they released a social video highlighting the positive effects of WFP's school feeding programs.

Impacts of Celebrity on Advocacy

Cindy McCain praised Park’s appointment: “Her powerful voice will be invaluable in mobilizing support as we race to reach millions of severely hungry children, women, and men with life-saving food.” This sentiment is echoed by Barron Segar, President and CEO of World Food Program USA, who emphasized the potential of cultural figures like Park to drive public engagement and action regarding hunger issues.

With such a prominent figure now representing the WFP, the organization hopes to invigorate support and advocacy efforts crucial to meeting the needs of families entangled in food insecurity. As the world's largest humanitarian organization, the WFP’s mission to address immediate hunger while also promoting long-term food security and resilience has never been more vital, especially in a world facing increasing challenges associated with climate change and geopolitical conflicts.