Shakira partners with Code.org and Amazon to promote computer science education for Hispanic youth

Global popstar Shakira has partnered with Code.org and Amazon to promote computer science education for Hispanic youth as part of a new initiative launched during Hispanic Heritage Month. 

The trio have teamed up to provide Spanish-speaking students worldwide with access to computer science learning. 

Through her foundation, Fundación Pies Descalzos, Shakira has long advocated for educational equity across Latin America. The new partnership with Code.org and Amazon builds on this by introducing coding and computer science resources tailored for Hispanic and Latin American communities.

Shakira explained, "I'm happy to partner once again with Code.org to be part of highlighting both the importance of computer science learning and its different applications including in the world of music creation; and to contribute in helping Hispanic students gain access to a field that has gained major relevance in today's industries and will only continue to do so."

Teacher training and community outreach

As part of the initiative, Code.org and Amazon’s Future Engineer programme recently launched a series of teacher training workshops in Barranquilla, Colombia, supported by Fundación Pies Descalzos. 

The first workshop took place in September 2024, with 25 teachers from public schools in Barranquilla and Cartagena participating. These teachers are expected to impact approximately 2,400 students across the two cities.

The workshops equip educators with the necessary skills and tools to introduce computer science concepts to elementary-age students. Training sessions will continue through 2025, to train an additional 100 teachers starting in February. The programme aims to enhance student language, mathematics, and programming skills, supporting improved STEM education practices for communities in need.

Hadi Partovi, CEO and co-founder of Code.org, stated:

"Computer science is about more than just coding; it's about teaching students the problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking skills that are essential in today's digitally-driven world. Collaborating with Shakira to expand access to computer science education for Hispanic students worldwide is a critical part of our mission to prepare all students to thrive in the future workforce."

Technology and cultural relevance in education

In addition to the training workshops, Shakira has also donated the use of her popular Spanish-language hits, such as "Amarillo" and "Chantaje," for Code.org’s Music Lab platform. 

The feature, developed with Amazon, allows students to learn coding through interactive music composition, integrating global chart-topping tracks to engage students in a creative learning environment.

Amazon’s involvement is facilitated through its Amazon Future Engineer programme, which provides funding and resources to support the expansion of computer science education for underrepresented communities. 

Victor Reinoso, Global Director of Amazon's philanthropic education initiatives, highlighted the company’s commitment: 

“At Amazon, we believe access to high-quality computer science education is crucial for preparing all students, especially those from underrepresented communities, to thrive in the digital economy. We're proud to partner with Code.org, Shakira, and Fundación Pies Descalzos to expand opportunities for Hispanic students to learn coding and computational thinking skills."