The Colombian superstar continues her humanitarian efforts by supporting education for children impacted by Venezuela’s devastating earthquakes.
Shakira has joined forces with FIFA in a major humanitarian initiative aimed at helping children affected by the powerful earthquakes that devastated Venezuela on June 24. Through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, $500,000 has been earmarked to support educational programs and resources for thousands of young people whose schooling has been disrupted by the disaster.
The announcement was made in a heartfelt video shared on Shakira’s social media channels, where the global music icon emphasized the importance of protecting children’s access to education during times of crisis.
“Today, millions of children are growing up without the education and opportunities they deserve,” Shakira said. “That’s why I’m so proud to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.”
The twin earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 and striking less than a minute apart, caused widespread destruction across Venezuela. More than 3,300 people have lost their lives, approximately 16,000 have been injured, and over 17,000 residents have been displaced, leaving thousands of children facing an uncertain future.
Education at the Center of Recovery
According to Shakira, the newly announced funding will be directed toward trusted local organizations already working on the ground to restore educational opportunities for children impacted by the disaster.
The initiative will help schools reopen, provide learning materials, support teachers, and ensure that students can safely return to classrooms as communities begin rebuilding.
“The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund will dedicate $500,000 to support organizations in Venezuela that are helping children whose education has been disrupted by this terrible tragedy,” Shakira explained. “We’ll invite trusted local organizations already leading the relief effort to apply for funding to help children get back into the classroom, support teachers and restore access to learning.”
In an emotional Instagram caption accompanying the announcement, the singer highlighted the long-term challenges disasters create for education.
“As the country rebuilds, every child continues to have access to education and the opportunity to learn,” she wrote.
“Dai Dai” Profits Supporting the Cause
The donation follows another major commitment Shakira announced earlier this year. In May, she revealed that 100% of the profits from her official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai,” would also benefit the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
Shakira joined the Fund’s advisory board last year alongside The Weeknd as part of FIFA and Global Citizen’s mission to raise $100 million for educational initiatives worldwide.
The singer is also scheduled to perform during the halftime show of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium, sharing the stage with Madonna and BTS in one of the tournament’s most anticipated entertainment events.
Calling on World Leaders
Beyond her own contribution, Shakira encouraged several world leaders—including Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and France’s President Emmanuel Macron—to support the initiative.
She also acknowledged Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for already joining the campaign and urged governments, organizations, and individuals around the world to help ensure children affected by the disaster can continue their education.
“If you believe every child deserves the chance to dream, please join us,” she said.
Artists Unite for Venezuela
Shakira joins a growing list of artists stepping up to support Venezuela following the catastrophe. Venezuelan stars Danny Ocean, Lele Pons, Lasso, and Joaquina have used their social media platforms to raise awareness and connect fans with relief resources.
Meanwhile, Metallica donated $100,000 through its All Within My Hands Foundation, Rush launched a special-edition fundraising T-shirt, and Bad Bunny coordinated the shipment of more than 42,000 pounds of essential supplies to assist survivors.
As relief efforts continue, Shakira’s latest initiative reinforces her long-standing commitment to humanitarian causes, proving once again that music can be a powerful force for change far beyond the stage.
Photo: Neilson Barnard//Getty Images
