Jennifer Lopez named first UN Global Advocate for girls and women

Los Angeles: Singer-actress Jennifer Lopez has been named the first-ever global advocate for girls and women at the United Nations Foundation.

The 46-year-old star will travel the globe in an attempt to highlight the plight of females struggling in war zones, refugee camps and even on the mean streets of her native New York, reported Marie Claire.

"Becoming a mother has made me more aware of the struggles of women and children throughout the world.

"While some progress has been made, there is still a lot more work that needs to be done for gender equality and universal access to medical care. I am happy to be joining the UN Foundation and eager to lend my voice and ensure that all girls and women are safe, healthy, educated, and empowered."