Katy Perry was named UNICEF’s new Goodwill Ambassador at the organisation’s ninth annual Snowflake Ball in New York last night.

The Unconditionally singer will take on the role of engaging young people in the charity organisation’s work, which aims to improve the lives of the some of the most vulnerable teenagers and children in the world.

This means actively encouraging adolescents to speak up about the difficult conditions they find themselves living in, including those whose communities are beset by violence or suffering from extreme poverty.

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“I believe young people have the power to change their own lives, with our help,” she said.

“I am honoured to join UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador, and committed to doing everything I can to help children and adolescents who come from such different backgrounds but want the same thing: a brighter future.”

Perry began working for UNICEF earlier this year when she travelled to Madagascar in April.

Meanwhile, the star revealed the cover art for her duet with boyfriend John Mayer, Who You Love, yesterday.