Bankruptcy Proved a Pivotal Point in Shakira’s Life
Shakira is arguably the most well-known Latin female artist ever. While many Americans aren’t familiar with her, she has sold 50 million albums worldwide and garners constant worldwide attention. But life wasn’t always perfect for Shakira. When she was only eight years old she came home from school to find all of their furniture and other assets had been sold as part of a bankruptcy settlement. It was difficult for her to understand, but with time she gained a new perspective on the ordeal and used it to fuel her desire to help children in poverty worldwide. CNN shares her story:
“That day I made myself a promise,” she said. “I promised that I would someday succeed to vindicate my parents’ social and economic position. But I also wanted to do something about those kids I saw so abandoned by the state, abandoned to their own luck, without any chances to change their destinies.”
The singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, dancer and philanthropist described herself as “obsessed” with child education, and its contribution to national and global security.
The Grammy Award-winning Shakira, who has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, said education “not only boosts economic growth, but also guarantees national and global security.”
She said education is also the solution to paramilitary gang recruiting in Latin America.
It’s a heartwarming story and we applaud Shakira’s efforts on behalf of children everywhere.
