Shakira has opened up about the discrimination she encountered in the music business because of her Colombian heritage, specifically being targeted with jokes related to drug trafficking. The 44-year-old singer, famous for her hit song “Hips Don’t Lie,” graced the cover of Glamour UK’s November Digital Issue, which focused on environmental issues. In the magazine, she not only discussed her collaborations with Prince William but also shared her experiences of overcoming adversity. Looking absolutely stunning on the cover, Shakira boldly posed in vibrant outfits against a backdrop of lush green and blue, effortlessly captivating the camera with her smouldering gaze.
In a candid conversation, Shakira has opened up about the discrimination she faced in the music industry due to her Colombian heritage. She revealed that she was often subjected to jokes and stereotypes about drug trafficking, which made her feel like the target of constant ridicule. Recounting her early days in the industry, she shared that upon gaining international recognition, she faced numerous insensitive remarks insinuating that being Colombian meant being associated with illegal activities. This constant portrayal of her culture as a punchline left her feeling uncomfortable and deeply disheartened. On a more positive note, Shakira also discussed her collaboration with the Royal on the Earthshot: How to Save Our Planet initiative, which she joined in October of last year.
Shakira, the famous singer known for her hit song “Hips Don’t Lie,” graced the cover of Glamour UK’s November Digital Issue. In this special edition focused on the environment, Shakira candidly discussed her collaboration with Prince William and the obstacles she has faced throughout her career.
The unexpected partnership between Shakira and Prince William began in October 2020 when they teamed up for the Duke of Cambridge’s ambitious global environmental competition. The competition, which has been in the works for a decade, aims to find innovative ideas to protect the planet. Esteemed judges from the A-list are set to participate, and winners will be awarded £1 million to bring their ideas to life.
One of the prominent figures supporting this project is Sir David Attenborough, who has been involved since its inception and is a member of the Earthshot Prize council responsible for selecting the winners. This year’s winners include projects focused on restoring coral reefs, tackling air pollution, and redistributing surplus food to help the less fortunate.
Struggles: Reflecting on her entry into the industry, she revealed, “I faced various challenges, particularly due to prejudiced notions based on my Colombian background.”
The judging panel boasts renowned individuals like actor David Attenborough, actress Cate Blanchett, Queen Rania of Jordan, and Shakira.
Regarding the royal figure, she praised, “Witnessing Prince William’s sheer dedication and genuine drive to instigate positive change is truly powerful…
“It’s truly remarkable to witness his unwavering commitment, as well as the collective determination of the Earthshot team, to create impactful transformations in a relatively short span…
“And it’s not an impossible feat. It necessitates collaboration, unwavering perseverance, and spreading awareness towards this cause.”
She mentioned that Prince William’s dedication and genuine determination to bring about change have greatly inspired her. Shakira further shared that her decision to join the Earthshot Prize was motivated by her children who are deeply concerned about the planet and eager to make it a better place. As a mother, she aspires to create a world that surpasses the one she grew up in for their sake. Additionally, Shakira opened up about her struggles with self-confidence, acknowledging that while she may appear confident to others, she actually harbors a lot of insecurity.
Whoops! In addition, she shared her most significant beauty blunder: ‘So, the night before the Super Bowl, I was dying my hair using the exact hair dye I always use’ (pictured at the 2020 Super Bowl).
‘I have this strange duality. Sometimes, I feel incredibly empowered, like I can conquer anything, but it never happens without a wave of self-doubt.’
Furthermore, she revealed her major beauty mishap: ‘So as I was dyeing my hair on the eve of the Super Bowl, just like I always do…’
‘But that night, my hair unexpectedly turned black! It was also my birthday, nearly midnight. And, of course, the next day I had to wake up flawless and ready. But no, drama had to unfold, especially before the Super Bowl! I was panicking.’
You can find the entire interview in the current GLAMOUR UK November Digital Issue available online.
