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UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Agnes Chan donates song proceeds to agency

UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Agnes Chan donates song proceeds to agency

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador for Japan and major Asian pop star Agnes Chan is dedicating the proceeds from one of the songs from her new album to UNICEF in honour of the Fund’s 60th anniversary, and she will also donate a portion of the album’s earnings to its work for children.

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador for Japan and major Asian pop star Agnes Chan is dedicating the proceeds from one of the songs from her new album to UNICEF in honour of the Fund’s 60th anniversary, and she will also donate a portion of the album’s earnings to its work for children.

UNICEF said today that Ms. Chan, who performed live at the Fund’s New York headquarters on Monday evening, will contribute earnings from the song “It’s a Wonder,” which was recorded with another UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and film superstar Jackie Chan.

UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman hosted Monday’s performance, at which Ms. Chan also launched her debut United States album, “Forget Yourself.” Mr. Chan, who is not related to the singer and was unable to attend, sent a message of support.

“Those who have been familiar with Agnes Chan’s work on behalf of UNICEF know that she has been a tireless and dedicated advocate for children, particularly children whose lives have been turned upside-down by conflict” said Ms. Veneman.

In 1998, Ms. Chan was appointed ambassador for the Japan National Committee for UNICEF. Since then she has travelled to Sudan, Timor Leste, Cambodia, Iraq, the Philippines, and the Republic of Moldova helping to raise visibility and millions of dollars for children. She also lobbies for legislation protecting children, participates in workshops and teach-ins and promotes peace building in all of her work.

As an author of many books for children, Ms. Chan had hoped for many years to champion their rights through music. In 1999, she met Robbie Seidman and a musical collaboration began that culminated in the 10 songs of the album.

“Every one of the children that I had met needed to be heard and had a story that begged to be told,” Ms. Chan said. “Awareness is the most important thing that I can contribute to the fight for children’s rights.”

Both Ms. Chan and Mr. Chan are major pop stars in Asia. Ms. Chan’s first single was the number one single in Hong Kong’s pop music history and Mr. Chan has released 20 albums since 1984.