Work hard, be humble and never be late: David Beckham

David Beckham is a global sporting icon. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, he has dedicated himself to making a difference in the lives of children worldwide. At a recent event hosted by Instagram in India, Beckham interacted with actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu and content creators from across India. Beckham discussed how he's been using the social media platform to raise awareness, connect with his audience and drive change.

You have had an important impact on society through your philanthropy. Tell us more.

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My UNICEF work has always been the most important work I do. I have always worked with children, the safety of children, the future of the world and that is the most important work I do. 

Tell us about your experience of travelling to India?  

There are many places I have visited around the world. India was one of the places I had never been to. Two years back I came and I was blown away. I love India, the people, environment, the colours, the food. The energy and love are totally incomparable. 

How have you shaped football in the US? 

We have been very lucky to have a team in Miami. It’s similar to India—it’s vibrant and colourful. It was a big challenge but I knew it would be worth it. I promised people in America we will bring the best players to the country. I feel lucky and privileged. Lio (Lionel Messi) has done a great job and taken it to an all new level. 

Is it different winning as an owner or a player? 

Winning a trophy as a player or as a manager, the feeling is the same. The pride is still there. The difference between watching a match as a player and watching it as an owner is different. As a player, you are playing and if you’re losing you can do something about it. But when you’re an owner, you can’t do anything. If you’re losing as an owner, you just have to sit there and be frustrated. But winning a trophy is the greatest feeling in the world.

Do you play other sports? 

I play many different sports. I’m a big basketball fan. Then I play pickle (ball) and padel too.

Are there any non-negotiables in your daily routine? 

My parents always taught me to work hard and be humble. Sir Alex Ferguson (the football manager) taught me to never be late, always be on time.

What is your relationship with social media, especially Instagram? 

I love Instagram. I have always liked to share things. My love for family, sports, teams, gardening and so on. I love to share those things on social media. I love the fact that people can connect, see what people are upto. Social media—if used in the right way—can be so powerful. Even for business it can be incredibly rewarding. It is also valuable in other ways. Like my charity work with UNICEF, you can share everything valuable and relevant with your audience through a platform like Instagram.