The “We Are One” concert, broadcast by HBO, kicked off the Inauguration of Barack Obama. Shakira, along with Usher and Stevie Wonder, performed Wonder’s song 'Higher Ground' which got President Obama, Vice President Biden and their families dancing along. Shakira and Bono were the only non-American participants in the concert.

Shakira’s participation in the Inauguration events culminated with her performance at the Neighborhood Ball, which was broadcast on ABC. Shakira sang her interpretation of 'The Bright Side of the Road' by Van Morrison, which you can watch below...

As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Shakira spent three days in the area affected by the Bangladesh Cyclone, where she was able to hear first-hand the stories of the survivors.

Shakira also visited Rajshahi , which is home to a UNICEF educational program. After the visit, Shakira declared that “education is the only guarantee for these children to have a better future”.