On Tuesday (December 17), Pharrell Williams received the honor of being named UNESCO’s Goodwill Ambassador for Artistic Education and Entrepreneurship during a ceremony in Paris. Williams’ new role for the United Nations cultural agency involves promoting initiatives dedicated to protecting indigenous cultures, advancing education and health care for women around the world, and raising awareness about genocide prevention while safeguarding cultural heritage. “Growing up in Virginia, never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be given an opportunity like this one,” said Williams while accepting the honor.

The 51-year-old musician hopes to use his role to do work that “evens the odds for marginalized communities.” UNESCO general director Audrey Azoulay called Williams a “complete artist [who is] also a humanist who works to put culture at the service of peace and bringing people together. He believes in the power of creativity and education to build a better future.” (Billboard)