ALGIERS — Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, has been named “Champion for Children's Rights” by the UNICEF office in Algeria, during a special ceremony held on Monday in Algiers.

“This symbolic and convivial ceremony was organized to pay tribute to the Olympic champion's exemplary and inspiring career and to mark her continued commitment to the child rights agenda since her appointment as UNICEF National Ambassador on 31 December 2023,” the Organization said in a statement.

The ceremony was marked by the presence of Alejandro Alvarez, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System in Algeria, as well as several other representatives of UN agencies in Algeria and their families.

Speaking to Imane Khelif, UNICEF Representative in Algeria, Katarina Johansson said: “We are immensely proud to have you back with us and to celebrate together with colleagues, family and friends our Olympic Champion and UNICEF ambassador. 

From the bottom of my heart and on behalf of the whole UNICEF team, congratulations to your victory. We admire you for the incredible talented female boxer, your fighting spirit, mental strength, perseverance and for the incredible kind person you are.” 

“Imane, you are a role model not only for children and young people (also adults) in Algeria but around the world. You have shown that dreams can come true (…) we will celebrate for your Olympic title but also for the commitment you have towards children and UNICEF’s mandate. You are not only a champion in boxing but a champion for children’s rights,” she added.

The Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System, Alejandro Alvarez, said: “We want to tell you how much we are proud of you as UN family. You represent our values very much. We want also to tell you how much we are in solidarity with you because of what you had to go through; you had to fight in the ring to win the medal and outside the ring...You are an example for all of us and a tremendous champion.”

For her part, the Algerian Olympic champion began by “thanking the UNICEF family” for this tribute. “I dedicate my medal at the Paris Olympics to all children. I am aware of the great responsibility that being a UNICEF ambassador represents. It is also a source of pride for me, and I am determined to continue my work with the organization and to be a role model for children and young people,” she said.