Peter Gould named Ambassador for refugees
Award-winning designer to rally support for refugees through Islamic philanthropy
21 July 2020
Award-winning designer to rally support for refugees through Islamic philanthropy
Leading creative designer Peter Gould has been named Australia for UNHCR’s newest Ambassador to raise support for the UN Refugee Agency’s life-saving protection and emergency support in humanitarian crises.
Gould will be the leading voice for Australia for UNHCR’s Islamic philanthropy initiative, aimed at engaging the Australian Muslim community in support of refugees from all faiths – and their host communities.
The appointment comes following the launch of UNHCR’s restructured global Refugee Zakat Fund in 2019 that helps individuals and Islamic financial institutions realise their obligatory social responsibility, with the potential to directly assist 154,740 of the most vulnerable displaced families across Jordan, Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq, Mauritania and Egypt.
Peter Gould and his creative studio team use design, research and a deep understanding of Muslim audiences to help purpose-driven organisations create brands and experiences for a more inclusive and representative world – and he credits his personal spiritual journey as a major influence.
In 2015, Gould received the Islamic Arts Award under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, recognising his innovative work in contribution to the social and economic welfare of the Muslim population.
Naomi Steer, National Director of Australia for UNHCR, said: “We are delighted to have Peter’s support for our Islamic Philanthropy initiative in this time of unprecedented global displacement. Peter brings to his new role strong networks and understanding in the Muslim community, Australia and globally, along with creative thinking and a passionate commitment to refugees. We look forward to working with Peter to reach new supporters of UNHCR’s vital work and help empower refugees to build better futures.”
Gould joins the ranks of other Australia for UNHCR ambassadors including actress Marta Dusseldorp, actress and writer Carina Hoang, cricket legend Ian Chappell, actress and comedian Jane Turner and, most recently, Shark Tank investor and founder of Boost Juice, Janine Allis.