Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro, on behalf the Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon presented her with the symbolic pin with the dove on it at the Headquarters ceremony. In selecting Theron, the Secretary-General said: “You have used your voice, compassion and special relationship with the public to create a better world. I am convinced you would be a persuasive and powerful Messenger of Peace".

"You have consistently dedicated yourself to improving the lives of women and children in South Africa, and to preventing and stopping violence against women and girls. I look forward to working with you to end this terrible scourge," he added.

Theron was recognized for her work in focusing attention on social issues, particularly in South Africa. She joins nine other UN Messengers of Peace who advocate on behalf of the Organization.

The concept

Messengers of Peace are individuals with widely recognized talents in the fields of art, film, literature, music and sports, among others, who help to raise worldwide awareness of the Organization’s ideals and work.

Through their public appearances, contacts with the international media and humanitarian efforts, they expand public understanding of the Organization’s work to help improve the lives of people across the world.

Since the programme started about a decade ago, more than 10 individuals have lent their names, reputations and energy to motivate people to press for a more peaceful world.

The other Messengers of Peace and their areas of focus are: conductor Daniel Barenboim, peace and tolerance; actor George Clooney, peacekeeping; author Paulo Coelho, poverty and intercultural dialogue; actor Michael Douglas, disarmament; primatologist Jane Goodall, conservation and environmental issues; violinist Midori Goto, Millennium Development Goals and youth; Princess Haya Bint al Hussein, Millennium Development Goals and hunger; cellist Yo-Yo Ma, youth; and Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel, human rights.

Theron’s project

Theron founded the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, in partnership with the Entertainment Industry Foundation, to create a safer, healthier and better life for impoverished children and their families in South Africa, especially those suffering from HIV/AIDS.

In 2007, the project collaborated with Oprah’s Angel Network to provide lead funding for a mobile health and computer clinic designed to improve the health and social development of youth in Umkhanyakude District in South Africa.

The project provided about 5,000 students in the remote community with access to counseling and testing for HIV and other health issues, as well as computer training and health education, with a special focus on preventing HIV.

Theron has also participated in a series of public service announcements in support of the Cape Town Rape Crisis Centre, urging no tolerance for rape and domestic violence. Born a South African farm girl, Theron won the 2004 Oscar for Best Actress for her role in the Hollywood drama "Monster", in which she played Aileen Wuornos, a serial killer whose youth was characterized by abuse.