(Image source from: cbsnews.com)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has appointed the Indian American television personality and food expert Padma Lakshmi as its newest Goodwill Ambassador, supporting the agency’s fight against inequality and discrimination around the world.

Lakshmi’s appointment was announced on Thursday by UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner on the eve of International Women’s Day in a ceremony at the UNDP headquarters in New York.

The Emmy-nominated television personality and award-winning author, in her new role, will mobilize support for the Sustainable Development Goals with a focus on fighting inequality, discrimination and empowering the disenfranchised.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day… let’s remember that women and girls face some of the worst discrimination and hardships in the world,” Lakshmi said at a press conference held at UNDP headquarters.

She said her main focus as UNDP Goodwill Ambassador will be to shine a spotlight on the fact that inequality can affect people in rich and poor countries alike.

“Many nations have greatly reduced poverty, but inequality has proved more stubborn,” she said.

“Inequality is further compounded by gender, age, ethnicity, and race. It especially affects women, minorities and others who face unimaginable discrimination in the societies in which they live.”

Steiner said Lakshmi has a strong record of speaking out for those who have been left behind and of fighting discrimination.

“We need more voices like hers to ensure we can meet the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals – our shared roadmap for peace and prosperity for people and the planet,” he added.

Lakshmi has been a judge and host, as well as executive producer, of Bravo Television’s Emmy award-winning series Top Chef.

By Sowmya Sangam