Maryam Bukar Hassan becomes the first UN Global Advocate for Peace, marking a historic step in using storytelling and youth voices for global peacebuilding

Maryam Bukar Hassan UN Peace Advocate—these words now define a historic new chapter for the United Nations and for Nigeria.

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In a landmark announcement, the UN has appointed Maryam Bukar Hassan, acclaimed Nigerian poet and spoken word artist, as its first-ever Global Advocate for Peace.

Formally received by UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the UN Headquarters in New York, Maryam’s appointment marks a bold and inclusive move toward reshaping peacebuilding through creativity, storytelling, and youth engagement.

Known globally as a voice of courage and unity, Maryam has inspired thousands through her poetry, championing gender equality, youth empowerment, and peace through art.

Her initiative, Through My Voice, has trained over 5,000 young Africans in storytelling, equipping them to become advocates in their own communities.

Her poetic brilliance has echoed across prestigious global platforms—UN SDG Awards, World Bank Youth Summit, COP28, and TED Talks.

From her UN video project “Peace Begins With Me” to her powerful performance at the Summit of the Future, Maryam continues to redefine what it means to advocate for peace.

UN leaders hailed her appointment. Jean-Pierre Lacroix noted, “Her voice will shine a spotlight on the vital role of women and youth in building inclusive, lasting peace.”

Rosemary DiCarlo added, “Art moves hearts and sparks change. Maryam’s creativity is a powerful peacebuilding tool.”

As the first Advocate to serve across the UN Peace and Security Pillar, Maryam will advance the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas through public engagement, digital storytelling, and global advocacy.

Her first official act? A powerful performance at NYC’s SummerStage Festival on July 27, sharing the spotlight with music legends Femi Kuti and Elida Almeida.

In her own words, Maryam called the appointment “an honor and a responsibility to speak peace into existence.”