Sania Mirza was named a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for the South Asian region by UN Women here on Tuesday. Described as a “woman of achievement” and “youth icon”, Sania will undertake initiatives to promote women empowerment in the region.
Speaking at the ceremony, the 29-year-old said, “Being a woman and a celebrity is tougher than being a man. I would have faced fewer controversies if I was a man. When I was offered this opportunity, I agreed immediately. It’s an extremely big honour for me. This is one of the most important days in my life.”
Sania also thanked her parents for bringing her up in a house where she was treated equally. The Hyderabad girl left the city on Tuesday night for the first leg of the International Premier Tennis League that begins in Manila on Friday.