Shakira has been honored by the United Nations (U.N.) for her humanitarian efforts helping underprivileged kids across the globe. The Hips Don't Lie singer, a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, accepted the medal in Geneva, Switzerland on Wednesday (03Mar10) as part of the U.N.'s World Day of Social Justice celebration.

She was praised for setting up her Barefoot Foundation, which provides nutrition and education to more than 6,000 kids, and U.N. labor chief Juan Somavia branded her a "true ambassador for children and young people, for quality education and social justice".

The Colombian star took the opportunity to urge others to help, telling the audience, "It's not too late to keep our promise to our children, but we must act now. Together, we can make education and decent work for all a reality. (Working with impoverished kids) shaped my dream and my vision of social justice: to see a world where every child can live a dignified life with the opportunity to reap the benefits of a good education and a chance to pursue their dreams." (PAW/WNWCETO/LR)

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