UNAIDS appointed Chinese football star Shao Jiayi as a UNAIDS National Goodwill Ambassador on 27 April.
In his new role, Mr Shao will promote the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030 in China. He will focus on young people, encouraging them to become leaders in the response to AIDS and to help end stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV.
The announcement was made at a match Mr Shao refereed in Beijing, where he currently plays in the Chinese Super League. Before joining the Beijing Guoan team, Mr Shao had an extensive career in Germany and represented his country at its first trip to the FIFA World Cup in 2002 and in Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup tournaments.
“Football is a powerful platform for engaging young people and raising their awareness of the importance of preventing HIV, on the one hand, but also for speaking out in support of everyone who faces stigma and discrimination.”
Shao Jiayi, UNAIDS National Goodwill Ambassador
We are thrilled to have Shao Jiayi join the UNAIDS team, as we know that with his commitment and star power we can encourage young Chinese people to learn the facts, become involved and help to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. He is an inspirational voice against stigma and discrimination and a champion of people living with HIV.”
Catherine Sozi, UNAIDS China Country Director
