Pop star Shakira and the Spanish soccer team Barcelona announced this week a joint effort to benefit over 28,000 Hispanic children based in Miami and Colombia.
The collaboration will see educational programs offered to children in the Hispanic community in Miami, and also the construction of sports and recreational facilities in the Colombian city of Cartagena and Miami.
The aim of the project is to assist children from vulnerable communities at risk of social exclusion.
Shakira is dating FC Barcelona’s soccer star Gerard Pique, and has been previously honoured for her artistic and humanitarian work.
Shakira used the opportunity at the launch to throw a spotlight on the Hispanic community, saying: “Not only do we represent the largest minority in the country [US], but the fastest growing; our community is in urgent need to provide all the necessary tools so that our children can develop their maximum potentials, talents, and intelligence.”
“The Hispanics in the United States have all the talent and desire; what we need now is more education and more sports to keep the ball on our side and to achieve the best play," the pop star added, according to her website www.shakira.com.
The launch of Soccer for Youth Development and Healthy Living was attended by Shakira and FC Barcelona superstars Piqué, Puyol, Busquets and Affellay at the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez, Commissioner Steve Bovo, FC Barcelona Foundation vice-president Ramon Pont and YMCA of Greater Miami Board Chairman Brian Mormille also all attended.
(Image from shakira.com).