Emma Watson named as UN Women Goodwill Ambassador

The 24-year-old Harry Potter star admits she still has 'a lot to learn' as she takes on the humanitarian role

Emma Watson has been made a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador.

The actress, 24, joins the United Nations organisation, which is dedicated to furthering gender equality.

She completed her degree at Brown University last month.

"Being asked to serve as [a] UN Women's Goodwill Ambassador is truly humbling," she said.

"The chance to make a real difference is not an opportunity that everyone is given and is one I have no intention of taking lightly.

"Women's rights are something so inextricably linked with who I am, so deeply personal and rooted in my life, that I can't imagine an opportunity more exciting."

The 24-year-old Harry Potter star rightly admitted that she still has "so much to learn".

"But as I progress," she continued, "I hope to bring more of my individual knowledge, experience and awareness to this role."

Those wondering whether they hand out UN titles to the famous like biscuits would be pleased to learn that Watson earned her new humanitarian role by promoting education for girls in Zambia and Bangladesh.

Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, said it was an "honour" to have the actress with her on the team.

"The engagement of young people is critical for the advancement of gender equality in the 21st century," she said. "I am convinced that Emma's intellect and passion will enable UN Women's messages to reach the hearts and minds of young people globally."