Global music icon The Weeknd, known offstage as Abel Tesfaye, has taken his passion beyond the stage to fight one of the world’s most pressing challenges—hunger. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) appointed him as a Goodwill Ambassador in 2021.
Tesfaye’s connection to this cause runs deep. With Ethiopian roots, he has been a vocal supporter of relief efforts in Ethiopia and beyond. In 2021, he donated $1 million to WFP’s operations in the region to help provide emergency food assistance to people affected by conflict and hunger.
His impact extends far beyond one donation. The Weeknd also committed to contributing the equivalent of $1 per ticket sold from his global tours to the XO Humanitarian Fund—a fund he created in partnership with WFP USA. The goal is bold yet urgent: raise $5 million to support WFP’s mission to end hunger around the world.
Through this fund, resources go toward providing life-saving meals to people facing food insecurity, especially in communities hit by conflict or climate disasters. The Weeknd’s initiative doesn’t just raise money; it also brings global awareness to the hunger crisis, encouraging fans and followers to take action.
As The Weeknd continues to sell out arenas and top global charts, his role as a WFP Goodwill Ambassador ensures that his voice also echoes in places where it’s most needed—among the millions of people struggling with hunger every day.
His dedication serves as a powerful reminder: celebrity influence can be used for real, lasting change.
Source: World Food Programme
