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Audrey Hepburn

by Sydny from San Diego

The Glamorous Hero
Hepburn and a child from Ethiopia (google.com)
Hepburn and a child from Ethiopia (google.com)

Several movie stars have their claim to fame; some acting and others what they do when no one is watching. A movie star known for her graceful acting and contribution to UNICEF’s organization is Audrey Hepburn, one of the few genuine acting legends. Heroes devote their time and talents to those in need. Tireless work with UNICEF formed her love for saving children in need. Audrey Hepburn, a fearless and supportive hero, stood up for those who could not. Her admirable acting and relentless work with UNICEF made her the crucial link for the needy.

Born on May 4, 1929 in Brussels, Belgium, Hepburn lived in a harsh environment. Her grave childhood experiences with the Holocaust were assisted by UNICEF; she always appreciated the associations’ work. Later in her extraordinary life, she began to act and sing and became rather wealthy. Hepburn used her wealth to help others. She started her work with UNICEF in 1988. Her passionate effort with the organization earned her the title of Goodwill Ambassador. “For UNICEF projects, Hepburn traveled to Asia, Africa, and Central and South America” (Pettinger).

Audrey Hepburn (google.com)
Audrey Hepburn (google.com)

Audrey, an actress, singer, and dancer, inspired others to feel as if anything could be possible. She always found a way to make unpleasant times better. “Still as a young ballet dancer, she performed in shows to help raise money for the Dutch war effort” (Tyle). Risking her own health, Hepburn supported things she believed need her assistance. She put forth her effort to make others’ lives better. Only a true hero would continue when the momentous challenges arrive. “A talented performer, Audrey Hepburn was known for her beauty, elegance, and grace” (Biography.com). Although in Hepburn’s life, she did experience the extravagance of acting and Hollywood, she never became pompous. Audrey stayed true to herself while appealing to all people. Her hardships during her childhood and glamorous acting career led her to the next step in her life.

Audrey’s attitude helped her work and connection with the needy. “While Hepburn’s acting was highly appreciated in her lifetime, she would doubtless prefer to be remembered as UNICEF’s hardworking fairy godmother” (Ferran). Audrey valued children all over the world. No matter their social standing, she comforted and protected them. Children are the future; therefore she contributed to the world by keeping them safe and healthy. However, sometimes Hepburn came to the rescue when children were in too much poverty. “I have a broken heart. I feel so desperate. I can’t stand the idea that two million people are in imminent danger or starving to death” (Pettinger). She worked with UNICEF to ensure that the children she met received care and essentials for living. No child should worry if they are going to have a meal the next day. Hepburn understood how not knowing what the future holds felt like. She embraced this connection and never stopped to provide a regular life for children.

Audrey Hepburn and UNICEF children (google.com)
Audrey Hepburn and UNICEF children (google.com)

Audrey’s selfless example of aiding the less fortunate has paved the way for future advocates of the poor. “I was born with an enormous need for affection and a terrible need to give it” (Hepburn). Heroes give even when they cannot give anymore. Audrey knew that children are everything and without them, this world would be very different. The love that is shown by Hepburn for children is truly remarkable and commendable. If the world spent more time on helping each other, these children would have a better chance at life. “She became a goodwill ambassador for the UNICEF in the late 1980s” (Biography.com). Heroism, in the form of love and care, should be honored for generations to come. Hepburn died on January 20, 1993 of colon cancer after returning from Somalia. Audrey Hepburn lives on as a hero through the children she aided.

Page created on 2/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

Last edited 2/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

The beliefs, viewpoints and opinions expressed in this hero submission on the website are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs, viewpoints and opinions of The MY HERO Project and its staff.

Related Links

#1 Audrey Hepburn fan website - This website was made in appriciation of Audrey Hepburn.
Audrey Hepburn's offical website - This is a website raises awareness of Hepburn's life.
UNICEF.org - UNICEF organization