David Beckham makes huge announcement in celebration of his milestone 50th birthday —No One Saw This Coming

David Beckham launched a new fundraising appeal for UNICEF’s work to support vulnerable children on Tuesday – in the lead up to his 50th birthday.

The former footballer has worked with UNICEF for 20 years as a Goodwill Ambassador – a role that has seen him raise awareness on issues such as education, health, immunization, and protection.

The new appeal will help to improve the lives of girls and adolescent girls globally who are impacted by child marriage, female genital mutilation, violence and abuse.

Leading up to his birthday, David’s social media channels will be taken over by girls from around the world, who will share their stories and the work that they are doing to uplift their communities.

In a video posted to his Instagram as the appeal launched, David said: ‘We are witnessing a global funding crisis where the most vulnerable children are suffering the most and urgently need our help. Please support my birthday fundraiser.

‘Next month, I turn 50. It’s a major milestone that has made me think about the opportunities I’ve had and the experiences that have shaped me.

‘As I look back, some of the moments that have had the most impact on me have come through my work with @UNICEF. As a father of four amazing children, I know how lucky my family is to be safe and have access to education and healthcare.

‘I’ve met children living in the toughest situations all over the world and I’ve seen what can happen when they are given the support they need to take control of their lives.

‘Today, 25 years since my first visit to a women’s centre in Thailand, the world is a very difficult place for children – especially girls.

‘That’s why I’m launching a fundraising appeal for my birthday. I want the children who need us to believe that their voice will be heard.

‘So if you, like me, believe that every child should have the chance to achieve their full potential, please click the link in my bio to donate. Whatever you can give will make a difference to children’s lives.

‘Every child deserves the chance to dream. Together, we can help to make those dreams a reality. Thank you @UNICEF. #ForEveryChild.’

Along with turning 50, 2025 marks 20 years since David became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and 10 years since the launch of the 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund.

Since its inception, the 7Fund has directly impacted over 1 million children in countries such as Nepal, Indonesia and Djibouti.