Shakira shared her experiences of discrimination in the music industry because of her Colombian heritage, such as being the subject of insensitive jokes related to drug trafficking. In a recent interview with Glamour UK, the 44-year-old singer opened up about her collaboration with Prince William and the challenges she has encountered in her career. Decked out in vibrant outfits against a lush outdoor backdrop, Shakira exuded confidence on the magazine’s cover, showcasing her signature smouldering expression for the camera.
Shakira opened up about the discrimination she faced in the music industry because of her Colombian heritage, sharing that she often became the subject of jokes related to drug trafficking. When discussing her early days in the industry, she reflected on the prejudice she encountered, saying, “I felt the impact of different forms of discrimination, especially being Colombian… I remember when I first gained recognition in the music scene outside of Colombia, there were many suggestive remarks about the stereotypes associated with being Colombian, often linked to illicit activities like drug trafficking. It was as if we were always the punchline, and it made me feel uneasy.” In addition to addressing this issue, Shakira also mentioned her involvement in Prince William’s Earthshot project, where she was invited to contribute her efforts towards saving the planet.
Being candid and upfront, the singer known for “Hips Don’t Lie”, age 44, graced the cover of Glamour UK’s November Digital Issue with a special focus on the environment. During her feature, she shared insights on collaborating with Prince William and overcoming challenges.
Their unexpected partnership began in October 2020 when they teamed up for the Duke of Cambridge’s ambitious global environmental competition. The competition, which has attracted A-list judges, aims to award £1million to winners with innovative ideas to safeguard the planet. One of the notable members of the Earthshot Prize council, which selects the winners, is the renowned Sir David Attenborough.
Among this year’s champions are initiatives that aim to restore coral reefs, tackle food waste by redirecting it to those in need, and combat air pollution.
Discussing her experience entering the industry, she revealed how she faced different forms of prejudice, particularly because of her Colombian background. Renowned judges such as David Attenborough, Cate Blanchett, Queen Rania of Jordan, and Shakira were part of the panel. She expressed admiration for Prince William, highlighting his dedication to instigating change. She found it inspiring to witness his passion and drive, as well as the Earthshot team’s commitment to creating a positive impact in a short period of time. She emphasized the importance of collective effort, unwavering determination, and raising awareness to achieve meaningful change.
The host spoke highly of Prince William, saying that his passion and determination to bring about change are truly inspiring. Shakira then shared that her children are the reason she joined the Earthshot Prize, as their concern for the planet has motivated her to make a difference as a mother. She emphasized her desire for her children to live in a better world than the one she grew up in. Shakira also opened up about struggles with self-doubt, admitting that despite projecting confidence, she often feels insecure.
Whoops! She also shared her biggest beauty mishap, recalling how she was dyeing her hair the night before the Super Bowl using her usual hair dye. “I feel like I have this duality. It’s strange because sometimes I feel really empowered that I can do it all, but there’s always a process of self-doubt,” she said.
Describing the mishap in more detail, she explained, “That night, my hair decided to turn black! It was also my birthday, almost midnight. The next day, I had to be up and perfect for the Super Bowl. But of course, there had to be some drama, especially before such a big event! I was freaking out.”
To read the full interview, check out the GLAMOUR UK November Digital Issue online now.
