Lucy Hale, best known for her role in “Pretty Little Liars,” has been appointed as the latest Global UN Goodwill Ambassador for the World Food Programme (WFP). The announcement comes as Hale reflects on the significance of her upbringing and the values instilled in her by her parents, who have dedicated their lives to hard work in their respective fields; her father as a farmer and her mother as a nurse.
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The actress expresses her gratitude for her “very humble upbringing,” acknowledging how these experiences have shaped her life and career. Through her new role with the WFP, Hale aims to shed light on the vital importance of agriculture in fostering self-sufficiency and combating hunger.
Raised in Tennessee alongside her older sister, Maggie, Hale describes the incredible dedication her father has demonstrated throughout his career as a farmer. “He’s always been in the cotton industry, but about 20 years ago, he became an actual farmer,” Hale reveals. Although she didn’t grow up on a farm herself, her father’s commitment to manual labour exemplifies the values of hard work and perseverance that she admires.
Hale fondly remembers moments spent on her father’s tractor during visits home, remarking, “He’s very proud of it. So whenever I go to visit, I go see what he’s up to and help out.” This connection to her family’s farming background fuels her passion for highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture.
In her role with the WFP, Hale is determined to raise awareness about the dual nature of the organisation’s mission. “If countries and nations are starving, they can’t thrive,” she emphasises. “It’s not only about providing food to those in need, but also teaching people how to sustain themselves through farming.”
Her journey as an actress, spanning nearly two decades, has awakened a desire to contribute to meaningful causes beyond her entertainment career. “I’m 36 now, and the last couple of years I’ve just felt called to something bigger than myself,” Hale comments. She acknowledges the uncertainty that comes with pursuing such a path but expresses confidence that the right opportunities will present themselves.
“It’s the honour of a lifetime,” she adds, reflecting on her new position at the WFP. Hale is committed to forging a long-term partnership that not only promotes awareness but also fosters change within communities. She hopes that through her efforts, more individuals will recognise the critical role of farming in alleviating hunger globally.
As she kicks off her ambassadorship, Lucy Hale’s passion for connecting her personal history with her advocacy work stands out. She envisions a world where self-sustainability is prioritised, and agricultural education becomes a fundamental part of combating food insecurity. Her dedication to these principles is evident, and with her platform, she aims to inspire others to join her in this important cause.