Clé de Peau Beauté & UNICEF Renew Vow to Empower Millions of Girls

TOKYO, JAPAN – April 15, 2026 – In a significant move that reinforces the growing intersection of luxury and social impact, Clé de Peau Beauté has renewed its global partnership with UNICEF for a third term. The luxury skincare and makeup brand has pledged to continue its support for girls' education and empowerment, aiming to reach an additional 7.3 million girls worldwide. This renewal brings the brand's total commitment since 2019 to an impressive US$17.4 million, marking the largest private sector contribution to UNICEF's Global Gender Equality Program.

The partnership, which has already surpassed expectations by supporting 12.9 million girls, is entering a new phase with a refined strategic focus. This next chapter underscores a powerful message: that the tools for empowerment in the 21st century require not just technical knowledge, but a fusion of science and creativity.

From STEM to STEAM: A Strategic Evolution

A key evolution in the renewed partnership is the expansion from a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to STEAM, integrating Arts into the curriculum. This strategic shift acknowledges a global educational trend that recognizes creativity as a vital component of innovation and problem-solving. By adding arts to the framework, the program aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals who can approach complex challenges with both analytical rigor and imaginative thinking.

"We are particularly excited about the focus on STEAM, empowering girls not just with technical knowledge but with the creative confidence to become true innovators," said Naomi Kawanishi, Global Brand President of Clé de Peau Beauté, in a statement. "This is how we help unlock their full potential."

This approach is already being implemented on the ground. In Indonesia, for instance, girls in project-based learning initiatives are combining scientific knowledge with creative expression to develop innovative solutions for climate resilience in their communities. The integration of arts can make technical subjects more accessible and engaging, potentially attracting girls who might otherwise not pursue STEM fields. Experts note that STEAM pedagogy fosters critical thinking and prepares students for a future workforce where, according to the World Economic Forum, creativity is one of the most sought-after skills.

Luxury with a Conscience

Clé de Peau Beauté's substantial and long-term commitment places it at the forefront of a movement within the luxury industry toward more strategic and impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR). While many high-end brands focus on environmental sustainability or cultural patronage, this partnership stands out for its scale and direct investment in human potential, specifically targeting gender inequality in education.

The US$17.4 million pledge is not merely a donation but a strategic investment in UNICEF's Skills4Girls initiative. This program is designed to equip adolescent girls with future-ready skills, including digital literacy, social entrepreneurship, and essential life skills such as problem-solving and negotiation. The partnership operates in countries like Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, and Vietnam, and will now expand to Bolivia, tailoring programs to address local needs while tackling systemic barriers.

This level of engagement sets a benchmark in a market where consumers, particularly younger generations, increasingly expect brands to demonstrate a genuine commitment to social and ethical values. By aligning its brand philosophy—unlocking radiance and potential—with a tangible global cause, Clé de Peau Beauté is crafting a powerful narrative of purpose-driven luxury.

Confronting a Critical Global Gap

The renewed commitment arrives at a crucial moment. Despite progress, the barriers to girls' education remain alarmingly high. According to data from UNESCO and UNICEF, 122 million girls are still out of school globally. Nearly 40 percent of adolescent girls and young women do not complete upper secondary education, a figure that skyrockets in low-income and conflict-affected regions.

These challenges are compounded by a severe underrepresentation in fields critical for future economies. Women account for just 35 percent of STEM graduates and a mere 3 percent of ICT graduates worldwide. Furthermore, a persistent digital divide leaves around 90 percent of girls in low-income countries offline, severely limiting their access to information, learning, and economic opportunities. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent millions of lost opportunities and stifled potential, driven by deep-seated issues like harmful gender norms, child marriage, and the burden of unpaid care responsibilities.

The Clé de Peau Beauté-UNICEF partnership directly confronts these intersecting barriers. It aims to provide not just skills but also supportive environments where girls can thrive.

"Our renewed partnership, and expanded focus on strengthening critical STEAM skills, is a powerful investment in girls as changemakers who have a powerful role to play in shaping our future," stated Carla Haddad Mardini, UNICEF's Director of Private Sector Fundraising and Partnerships. As this collaboration moves forward, its success will be measured not only in the millions of girls reached but in the creation of a new generation of female leaders, innovators, and creators poised to reshape their communities and the world.