Earlier in December of 2016, world famous soccer player David Beckham released a video for UNICEF which featured several profound and moving tattoos on his body. Well known for his real tattoos that were inspired by his wife and children, David Beckham sported depictions of violence, abuse and bullying against young girls and boys, highlighting multiple actors of violence who prey on children within various communities, such as their homes and schools. The campaign emphasized the unjust and uncalled for effects of childhood violence that permanently shape children's lives. Closing the short video, David Beckham reminds the audience that "violence against children marks them forever", and requests the viewers to participate in ending violence.
Beginning his own personal initiative against childhood violence, David Beckham participated with UNICEF as a member of UNICEF's football team, Manchester United, hosting Gala dinners and holding campaigns such as the UNICEF Gala Dinner that alone raised over £215,000. Having been a powerful advocate and supporter of the organization, he was promoted to the status of a Goodwill Ambassador among other celebrities who have represented and participated in UNICEF's many missions.
His involvement in UNICEF is not exclusive to childhood violence, and it extends throughout several aspects of the organization. Raising awareness for the devastating effects of natural disasters on families and children, David Beckham has visited UNICEF's Supply Division which is located in Copenhagen, Sweden in response to the Indian Ocean Tsumani of 2004. Following the 2013 typhoon in the Philippines, the soccer star made multiple trips to the country to see UNICEF's immediate response to the disaster and the continued support after one year. The organization provide psychological support and health care for families in the wake of mass displacement.
In addition, he has brought attention towards malignant diseases such as Ebola, HIV and AIDS. Visiting Swaziland and South Africa, he has brought considerable attention towards the affects of HIV and AIDS on families. Reaching 2 million people across Sierra Leone, David Beckham worked in conjunction with UNICEF to produce and broadcast a video that expressed his support for UNICEF in combating the deadly disease.
Recently, David Beckham has formed his own campaign within UNICEF, called 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund which is a platform that he heads to aid children by raising funds to provide education and protection for children. His commitment to UNICEF after his retirement from Manchester United is remarkably genuine and profound and shows his great concern for the health and well-being of youths.
