Smriti Mandhana has been named the celebrity advocate for UNICEF India, with the organisation seeking to leverage her influence to promote equal opportunities, health and well-being for adolescent girls. The development was announced on International Day of the Girl, which draws attention to girls’ rights, safety, leadership and potential, while highlighting the barriers that continue to restrict their choices. Mandhana will build on her previous association with initiatives promoting equal rights and opportunities for children and young people, and advocate for an environment in which girls can participate in sports and realise their potential.
She will also support UNICEF India’s efforts to empower adolescent girls, improve their health and well-being, and help them access opportunities to learn, play and lead.
In a video posted by UNICEF India, Mandhana said, “As a 9-year-old, I went to my first cricket trial, accompanying my brother for fun. I continued enjoying being a child and playing cricket. My father always encouraged me to play cricket, while my mother knew how difficult it could be to balance my journey as a professional cricketer with my academics at the same time,” Mandhana said.
“I made my choice, and here I am today, proudly representing India in international cricket. Looking back, I realised that every girl deserves the freedom to choose her path, pursue her dreams, and discover what she is best in doing. Being a girl should not determine how far she can go,” she added.
Sachin Tendulkar Welcomes Mandhana
Meanwhile, Mandhana was warmly welcomed by Sachin Tendulkar, who has been associated with UNICEF as its Regional Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia.
Taking to X, Tendulkar wrote, “Welcome to the @UNICEFIndia family, @mandhana_smriti! You inspire millions on the field, and I know you will be a brilliant voice for children’s rights off it.”
Mandhana was recently appointed the women’s cricket team captain after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down.
(With Inputs From PTI)
