SEATTLE — Pop member of One Direction turned rock star solo artist Harry Styles helps forward global needs and is certainly a “Sweet Creature,” not just because of the track title on his new self-titled album, but because of his charitable relationship with the Lalela Project. This is an organization that provides arts education to at-risk youth in Cape Town, South Africa. Styles also has a growing interest in becoming a UNICEF Ambassador.
Early in 2015, during One Direction’s “On the Road Again” tour, Styles visited students from the Lalela Project in Cape Town, South Africa to gift them with tickets to the band’s show. Lalela is aligned with numerous UN Sustainable Development Goals including: no poverty, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities and partnerships for the goals. The project has had a growing impact since its inception, working to serve and empower at-risk youth.
In 2016, Lalela served 31 schools, 12 communities and a record 3,500 students in South Africa alone, resulting in 4,465 arts education hours. Lalela works to end the vicious cycle of poverty that leaves youth in at-risk environments without adequate education, turning them toward drugs, violence and crime. The art programs create safe spaces and allow children to imagine a new future, providing opportunities away from disadvantaged communities.
In addition to his outward support for Lalela, Styles helps forward global needs through his expressed interest in becoming a UNICEF Ambassador. One source close to the star reported, “He knows he is incredibly privileged to live the lifestyle he does but…is determined to do good with his spare time.”
Along with the other members of the boy band, Styles traveled to Accra, Ghana in 2013. He referred to the experience as “the most amazing day I’ve had so far…in my life ever,” according to Twitter. The five singers volunteered with Comic Relief, a major charity that envisions a just world free from poverty. Comic Relief, founded in 1985, works toward positive change through the power of entertainment. The organization raises money through two main campaigns: Red Nose Day and Sports Relief. It then uses these funds to tackle poverty and injustice around the globe.
Even amidst the craziness that comes along with being a worldwide celebrity, down-to-earth Styles helps address global needs. As an individual that young people around the world admire, his efforts can have significant impacts and raise awareness.
– Mikaela Frigillana
Photo: Flickr