'UNICEF has done tremendous work in my home nation ... and I have seen firsthand the difference UNICEF makes,' Shakira said in a statement released by the agency. 'It's rewarding to know that I join such a great list of stars supporting UNICEF, and can personally contribute to improving the lives and futures of children.'

Since 1954, when the late comedian Danny Kaye became the first goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund, leading personalities in the arts, sports, literature and public life have traveled the world advertising the world body's work.

Shakira, who lives in Miami and has won a Latin Grammy and numerous MTV awards, joins a list of past and present UNICEF ambassadors that includes the late Audrey Hepburn, Harry Belafonte, Roger Moore, Vanessa Redgrave, Jessica Lange and Mia Farrow.

Currently, there are about 100 goodwill ambassadors chosen by various U.N. agencies. Other youthful ambassadors include 28-year-old actress Angelina Jolie, who has represented the UN High Commissioner for Refugees since 2001.