Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy is now a regional Unicef ambassador, advocating for children's rights. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy is now a regional Unicef ambassador, advocating for children's rights. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy is now a regional Unicef ambassador, advocating for children's rights. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy is now a regional Unicef ambassador, advocating for children's rights. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy named as new Unicef ambassador for Middle East and North Africa


Sophie Prideaux
  • English
  • Arabic

The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund appointed Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy as the new regional ambassador for the Middle East and North Africa.

The Molasses star took up the role during an appointment ceremony this week, which was held via video conferencing.

“I am truly excited about this new role,” he said. “I am delighted to continue to work with Unicef to advocate for children’s rights across the region.”

Helmy has previously worked with Unicef in Egypt, acting as an ambassador at country level, and participating in events advocating for children's protection and empowerment.

In his new role, he will focus on promoting children's rights and awareness of early childhood development issues at a wider regional level.

"Actor Ahmed Helmy is no stranger to the Unicef family," said Ted Chaiban, Unicef regional director for Mena. "We are grateful for all of his substantial contributions raising awareness on important issues including positive parenting, early childhood development and campaigns against bullying. We look forward to Helmy continuing this important work at a regional level."

Helmy's wife, actress Mona Zaki, is also a Unicef ambassador. In 2018, the couple were part of Egypt's first national anti-bullying campaign. The pair also visited Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan the same year, where they met with Syrian children and families.

What can victims do?

Always use only regulated platforms

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Report to local authorities

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Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence

UAE tour of Zimbabwe

All matches in Bulawayo
Friday, Sept 26 – UAE won by 36 runs
Sunday, Sept 28 – Second ODI
Tuesday, Sept 30 – Third ODI
Thursday, Oct 2 – Fourth ODI
Sunday, Oct 5 – First T20I
Monday, Oct 6 – Second T20I

The specs

Price, base / as tested Dh135,000

Engine 1.6L turbo

Gearbox Six speed automatic with manual and sports mode

Power 165hp @ 6,000rpm

Torque 240Nm @ 1,400rpm 0-100kph: 9.2 seconds

Top speed 420 kph (governed)

Fuel economy, combined 35.2L / 100km (est)

COMPANY%20PROFILE
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French business

France has organised a delegation of leading businesses to travel to Syria. The group was led by French shipping giant CMA CGM, which struck a 30-year contract in May with the Syrian government to develop and run Latakia port. Also present were water and waste management company Suez, defence multinational Thales, and Ellipse Group, which is currently looking into rehabilitating Syrian hospitals.

The Vile

Starring: Bdoor Mohammad, Jasem Alkharraz, Iman Tarik, Sarah Taibah

Director: Majid Al Ansari

Rating: 4/5

Indoor Cricket World Cup Dubai 2017

Venue Insportz, Dubai; Admission Free

Day 1 fixtures (Saturday)

Men 1.45pm, Malaysia v Australia (Court 1); Singapore v India (Court 2); UAE v New Zealand (Court 3); South Africa v Sri Lanka (Court 4)

Women Noon, New Zealand v South Africa (Court 3); England v UAE (Court 4); 5.15pm, Australia v UAE (Court 3); England v New Zealand (Court 4)

The specs
  • Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
  • Power: 640hp
  • Torque: 760nm
  • On sale: 2026
  • Price: Not announced yet