Sharapova Named Newest Goodwill Ambassador

Tennis super star Maria Sharapova was recently named a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador. Along with the announcement as Goodwill Ambassador, Maria donated $100,000 to support UNDP projects in areas affected by the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl.

"My first step is to focus on the Chernobyl-affected region, where my family has roots,” said Sharapova.

The donation will go specifically to the eight youth related projects in the region. UNDP has been in Chernobyl for two decades trying to improve the way of life for thousands in the affected area. This is a long battle with many problems stemming from the nuclear accident which makes recovery for the area more difficult. The UN is committed to rehabilitation in Chernobyl and just recently put UNDP in charge of assisting the area.

UNDP is especially pleased that Ms. Sharapova is targeting a region that is often overlooked by donors,” concluded Melkert. “We know that community-recovery projects of the sort that she has targeted for her generous donation hold great promise.”

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