Despite having just announced her engagement to one of the most desirable men in Hollywood, Angelina Jolie has put her celebrations on hold to visit Ecuador, where many Colombians have been forced to take refuge.
Angelina, 36, visited the region to discuss issues with the High Commissioner for Refugees, Antonio Guterras. Despite having been a goodwill ambassador for the UN since 2001 and having completed over 40 trips across the globe, she was only named Special Envoy by Gutterras earlier this month.
The new post will see the Oscar winning actress perform a more diplomatic role, as UNHCR spokesman Adrian Edwards said last week: ‘She is expected to focus on large-scale crises resulting in the mass displacement of people, to undertake advocacy and represent UNHCR and Mr Guterres at the diplomatic level, engaging with relevant interlocutors on global displacement issues.’
Unlike her red carpet antics, Angelina chose not to stand out for this trip and opted for a simple black vest top and a make up free face while she spoke to some local women and villagers. At one point she ditched the glamour completely and hiked through the forest with a local farmer, as he talked her through some of the struggles his community is currently facing.
The actress was also seen meeting with Ecuador’s Foreign Minister, Ricardo Patino, to promote the ‘Thanks Ecuador’ campaign in recognition of their help with refugees.
This trip comes after her visit to the Galapagos islands, where she relaxed and celebrated her recent engagement with Brad Pitt and their six children.
