Global music star Shakira has reaffirmed her commitment to philanthropy and social impact, announcing that all royalties from her FIFA 2026 anthem “Dai Dai” will be donated to the FIFA Global Citizens Education Fund. The initiative aims to support underprivileged children by improving access to education and opportunities in football.
Despite her worldwide fame, Shakira has often emphasized her connection to her roots and her dedication to causes she deeply believes in. The upcoming donation continues her long-standing tradition of using her success to contribute to social development projects, particularly those focused on children and education.
Speaking to People magazine, the singer described the anthem as more than just a musical release. She said it carries a message of hope for children who have been discouraged from chasing ambitious dreams. “It’s a message for every child who’s been told that their dream is too big,” she explained. “And to remind us that every champion started out as a kid who perhaps went through hardship and struggles. But there was someone who believed in them, and that’s why they didn’t give up.”
Shakira’s connection with football spans more than a decade. Her first major association with the FIFA World Cup came in 2010, when she performed the globally successful anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”. The song became one of the most recognizable World Cup tracks in history and cemented her relationship with the sport.
Reflecting on that bond, she said her relationship with football remains strong and deeply meaningful. “I have this connection with [soccer] that seems unbreakable,” she noted, highlighting how the sport has remained a recurring theme throughout her career and public performances.
However, Shakira also acknowledged that her rise to global stardom was far from effortless. She spoke openly about the challenges she faced in her early years, describing a long journey marked by persistence, uncertainty, and determination. “I had to really fight for my dreams,” she said, recalling the struggles that shaped her path to success.
Now established as one of the world’s most influential entertainers, Shakira has also taken time to reflect on the lessons she would share with her younger self. She admitted that she would encourage herself to embrace life with more confidence and ease during her early twenties. “I would say to that girl back in her 20s to enjoy more,to believe in herself more,” she said.
She further reflected on how confidence evolves with age, particularly for women navigating public life and demanding careers. According to Shakira, growing older brings a different kind of self-assurance. “I think women, as time goes by, we just acquire this new confidence,” she explained.
Shakira added that self-acceptance becomes more important than chasing perfection. “Even though we don’t look as perfect as in our 20s, it’s beautiful to just be yourself and accept who you are,” she said, closing her reflection on a note of confidence and authenticity.
Through her music, philanthropy, and public voice, Shakira continues to merge entertainment with purpose, using global platforms like the FIFA World Cup to inspire young people and promote education, opportunity, and belief in one’s dreams.
