Born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, she was the daughter of a jewellery store owner and his wife. Shakira said that although she was an only child, she had the benefits of older step-siblings from her father’s previous marriage. At the age of eight, her father’s business collapsed, and the family’s comfortable life changed drastically. Because the star knows poverty first-hand, as well as riches, Shakira has become committed to helping other Columbian families in need.
Shakira has created a foundation called Pies Descalzos, which offers aid to more than 3,000 children each year. The program also provides schools across the country.
To read Shakira’s interview in Elle magazine, click here.