In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, we continue to recognize the scientific, economic, cultural, political, and social contributions of influential immigrants and refugees who’ve helped shape the vibrant tapestry of America. Today, we spotlight Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, professionally known as Shakira.
Born February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia, Shakira’s passion for the arts started very young. At four years old, she penned her first poem. At seven, she received her first typewriter as a Christmas gift, on which she continued to write her poetry—which eventually evolved into songwriting.
She initially discovered her passion for performing at a local Middle Eastern restaurant that featured vibrant music and belly dancing. Shakira’s journey was not without its challenges. Despite being known for her hyperactivity, belly dancing, and enthusiasm for music, a teacher once claimed she would fail because she “sang like a goat.”
However, Shakira’s resilience and determination were unwavering. Her dances for classmates earned her the nickname “belly dancer girl.” She performed throughout her childhood at various musical events, always remembering her father’s advice to be grateful for her upbringing.
Around age twelve, the aspiring performer met a local theater producer who proved to be a catalyst in Shakira’s career by convincing a Sony Colombia executive to hold an audition for her. Impressed by the performance, which took place in a hotel lobby, the executive helped connect Shakira with his colleagues working with Sony’s music division. Soon after this meeting, the label signed Shakira to a contract to record three albums.
So far, Shakira has released 12 studio albums and has sold over 95 million records worldwide. The “goat voice” she once was ridiculed for gave her a unique sound that has earned her spot as the best-selling female Latin artist of all time.
At 47, Shakira’s career still thrives not just musically as a producer, director, and singer but also philanthropically as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Inspired by her days spent visiting Colombian orphanages with her father, Shakira also established the Barefoot Foundation to help impoverished children in Colombia access a quality education.
During her illustrious career, Shakira has won multiple awards, including four Grammys, five American Music, and one People’s Choice award. She’s also won the ALMA Humanitarian Award, which honors actors and directors who promote positive portrayals of Hispanics in the media and for achievements in music.
Read more about the other immigrants and refugees we’ve featured during National Hispanic Heritage Month:
Andy García: Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month