Being one of the world’s greatest pop-starts makes Shakira one of the highest earning celebrities out there. Discover Pies Descalzos, the singer’s most philanthropic venture.
Shakira, the Colombian pop icon with a captivating voice and electrifying dance moves, is a force to be reckoned with. But beyond the stage lights and sold-out stadiums lies a deep commitment to social change, embodied by her Pies Descalzos Foundation.
Born from Witnessing Hardship
The seeds of Pies Descalzos were sown in 1997, when a young Shakira, barely 18 years old, witnessed the harsh realities of poverty and violence plaguing her home country. Determined to make a difference, she envisioned a future where underprivileged children wouldn’t be confined by circumstance. Education, she believed, was the key to unlocking their potential and offering a path out of hardship.
Fueled by a successful career that has seen her amass a net worth of around $300 million, Shakira isn’t one to shy away from giving back. While the exact figures of her personal contributions to Pies Descalzos remain undisclosed, the foundation’s remarkable achievements speak volumes about her unwavering support.
More Than Just Textbooks
Pies Descalzos champions a holistic approach to child development. Recognising that education goes beyond memorizing facts and figures, the foundation incorporates arts, sports, and psychosocial support into its curriculum. This well-rounded approach equips children with the skills, confidence, and emotional resilience they need to thrive not just in school, but also in life.
Building Dreams, Brick by Brick
The impact of Pies Descalzos is tangible. Since its inception, the foundation has constructed nine state-of-the-art schools across Colombia, providing modern learning facilities for over 152,000 children. These schools boast well-equipped libraries, laboratories, art rooms, and sports grounds, fostering a stimulating and engaging learning environment. But Pies Descalzos goes beyond brick and mortar.
Empowering Communities
The foundation’s vision extends beyond the classroom walls. Recognizing the crucial role families and communities play in a child’s development, the organisation transforms the schools into community hubs. Parents and residents are offered resources and training opportunities, empowering them to become active participants in their children’s education and their own futures. This fosters a sense of collective responsibility and breaks the cycle of poverty, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Shakira’s unwavering dedication to education through the organisation is a testament to her belief in its transformative power. The recently built school in Barranquilla’s Nuevo Bosque neighborhood exemplifies this commitment. This $4 million facility boasts not just classrooms and labs, but also art studios, a library, and a communal space, catering to 1,000 students annually. It’s a beacon of hope, not just for the children who walk through its doors, but for the entire community.
Shakira’s story is an inspiration – a reminder that global fame can be leveraged for a cause far greater than oneself. Pies Descalzos stands as a powerful example of how education, when coupled with a holistic approach and a commitment to community empowerment, can transform lives and build a brighter future, one child at a time.