Sport inspires you to move on in life

Roger Federer, the number-one tennis male tennis player and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, took a break from his whirlwind schedule of tournaments, grand slams and public appearances to record a video message raising awareness about HIV and AIDS.

The public service announcement supports the Unite for Children, Unite Against AIDS campaign, launched by UNICEF and UNAIDS to draw attention to the impact of the disease on children and young people. Since the campaign launched in 2005, several countries have begun local initiatives of their own, engaging thousands in the campaign.

"I’ve seen kids in South Africa who’ve been affected and it’s a very big problem, especially in the poorer countries," said Mr. Federer, whose mother was born in South Africa. "It’s important to break down discrimination and stigma. Many people always think ‘I can’t talk to this person’, but I think it’s very important to speak openly about it. Ask your parents, teachers and coaches."

Roger Federer was appointed as a UNICEF Good will Ambassador in 2006.

"Sports have always been a great part of my life. It brings people together, so it’s easier to talk about a subject like HIV," added Mr. Federer. "Sport inspires you to move on in life, and it’s important to speak together if you’re playing a team sport."


On his first trip as a Goodwill Ambassador last year, Roger Federer visited a life-skills workshop in India, which offered practical information to young people to help them make responsible decisions – such as how to best protect themselves from HIV/AIDS and educate others about the disease.

"I think if people can help the process, trying to make HIV a thing of the past, I’m willing to help, too," he said. "It’s a hard subject to talk about. People sometimes try to avoid it – that’s not the way to go."

Roger Federer’s video message in English, French and German will be released to mark this year’s World AIDS Day on 1 December.


Source: http://sharecompassion.blogspot.com/2007/11/roger-federer-psa.html


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