Shakira's $3.68 million gift transforms Colombian school for at-risk youth

Colombian superstar Shakira has contributed $3.68 million towards the establishment and development of the Lomas del Peyé school in Cartagena, a facility designed to serve at-risk youth in the coastal city. Founded in 2014, the educational institution has become a vital resource for vulnerable children, currently enrolling over 1,000 students annually with capacity to accommodate up to 1,700.

The school project required a total investment of approximately $8 million, with Shakira's foundation covering roughly 46 percent of the construction and operational costs. This substantial contribution underscores the artist's long-standing commitment to educational initiatives in Colombia and her focus on supporting marginalised communities.

Lomas del Peyé serves as a concrete example of philanthropic investment in South American education infrastructure, addressing systemic barriers that limit access to quality schooling for disadvantaged populations. The institution combines academic instruction with support services designed to address the multifaceted needs of at-risk youth.

Shakira's involvement in educational projects reflects a broader pattern among global celebrities establishing foundations and charitable initiatives focused on youth development and social equity in their home countries.