I first heard Shakira Mebarak’s voice in 1998, when a friend recommended I check out the record of this “bizarre chick” from Colombia. I listened, and even though I wasn’t sure if I was hearing Arabic, Spanish, rock or folk music, I was hooked. The more I’ve learned about her over the years, the more I’ve learned why her unique spirit is so infectious.

Shakira Mebarak was born in Barranquilla, Colombia, yet she speaks five languages and has Lebanese roots. She recorded her first album, Magia, at the age of 13, yet the nuns at her school told her she had the “voice of a goat.” And just after Pies Descalzos -- the album I loved -- was released, she started her own foundation to open new schools for poor children in Colombia, even though her career started to take off at a stratospheric pace. It was clear that Shakira had her own message and sound to share with the world.

In 2001, her English-language album Laundry Service debuted at No. 3 on the charts and went on to sell 20 million copies since.

Over the years, she hasn’t just relied on her hip-shaking moves: An astute businesswoman and philanthropist, she has launched her own perfume and has fought for access to clean water and education around the world. For me, she’s a role model to last through the ages. So in time for Earth Day, let’s say it all together: Viva la Shakira!

Like many celebrities, Jennifer has hit a few bumps in her road to success -- from a high-profile breakup with Ben Affleck to criticism for her vocal abilities. But La Jenny has proven herself to nay-sayers with platinum-selling albums and by launching her own clothing line, JLO. She even made history by becoming the first Latina in Hollywood to have a leading role in a film since Rita Hayworth, and to be paid more than $1 million per movie.

Jennifer has recently taken on several new starring roles, including wife (to singer Marc Anthony), mother (to twins Max and Emme) and now, judge on the current season of “American Idol.”

These days, when she’s not nurturing budding stars on “American Idol,” J.Lo can be caught modeling for a number of companies or putting finishing touches on her seventh studio album, Love?, set to release later this year.

However you trace Jennifer Lopez’s path to stardom -- as a dancer, an actress, a singer, a fashion trend-setter, producer or entrepreneur -- it’s undeniable that she has become the face of Latinas everywhere. From the dance floor to the boardroom, Jennifer creates her own definition of confidence where diva, classy business woman and down-to-earth home girl meet to inspire Latinas to strive for the best -- but to stay true to themselves while they do it.

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