Shakira, a renowned global icon, renowned for her philanthropic work as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF and her advocacy for children’s rights, received an invitation to perform at the Opening Ceremony of the Post-2015 Development Agenda Summit, held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

At the age of 38, Shakira appeared in a modest long white dress and delivered a thought-provoking address to the representatives of member states attending the 70th session of the UN General Assembly.

In her speech, she emphasized the urgent need to address poverty and inequality, stating that it is our responsibility to create a society that eradicates poverty, ensuring justice and equality for the most marginalized individuals on Earth. Shakira emphasized the rights of children to equal opportunities, well-being, safety, and happiness, calling for action rather than mere imagination.

During her performance, Shakira dedicated her song to Aylan Kurdi and Galip Kurdi, two Syrian refugee children who tragically lost their lives at sea while seeking refuge. The Kurdi family has come to symbolize the immense suffering endured during the Syrian refugee crisis.

Accompanied by a live band, she sang ‘Imagine,’ a song inspired by the poem written by John Lennon. The compassionate lyrics of the song aim to raise awareness about global issues. The performance incorporated video footage and images of children from diverse parts of the world, further highlighting the importance of the message.

Shakira, whose full nаme is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. In addition to her successful career as a singer, producer, songwriter, dancer, and entrepreneur, she maintains a romantic relationship with Spanish football star Gerard Piqué, with whom she has two children.

Notably, Shakira also established a charitable organization in Colombia called the “Pies Descalzos Foundation,” which focuses on aiding underprivileged children.