On September 27, Central Park’s Great Lawn transformed into a powerhouse of music, activism, and global unity as Shakira headlined this year’s Global Citizen Festival. Hosted by Global Citizen Ambassador Hugh Jackman, the festival also featured electrifying performances from Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Mariah the Scientist, making it one of the most anticipated cultural and philanthropic events of 2025.
Shakira, stepping into her role as both superstar and activist, summed up the spirit of the night: “I’m honored to headline the incredible Global Citizen Festival in Central Park this September. Music has always been my way of connecting with people and leaving a mark on the world. I can’t wait to perform, unite, and inspire action.”
But beyond the music, the festival carried a deeper mission—driving commitments and change across critical global issues, from energy access in Africa to rainforest protection, education, and community volunteering.
A Festival With a Purpose
The Global Citizen Festival isn’t just a concert. Tickets are free but must be earned by taking action, signing petitions, contacting leaders, or volunteering through the Global Citizen app. This year’s campaign spotlighted four urgent goals designed to mobilize governments, corporations, and individuals alike.
- Goal 1: Energy Access for 1 Million People: Africa’s growing population faces an energy crisis, with millions still living without electricity. This year, the festival doubled down on the Scaling Up Renewables in Africa campaign, aiming to mobilize $1.5 billion to train 50,000 young workers in renewable energy skills.
- Goal 2: Protecting the Amazon Rainforest: The Amazon, often called the lungs of the planet, is under constant threat of deforestation. Global Citizen, in partnership with Re:wild, announced plans to raise $200 million to support Indigenous communities leading conservation and restoration efforts.
- Goal 3: Education for 30,000 Children Worldwide: Education took center stage with the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a groundbreaking partnership designed to combat the global literacy crisis. With 250 million children struggling with basic reading skills, the fund’s target is to raise $100 million, ensuring at least 100,000 children gain access to quality education.
A Night of Music, Unity, and Action
The performances themselves were spectacular. Shakira’s high-energy set electrified the Great Lawn, while rising stars Tyla and Ayra Starr brought Afrobeat firepower to the stage. Mariah the Scientist’s soulful performance added a reflective touch to the evening, balancing the festival’s tone between celebration and urgency.
Global Citizen has always been about proving that ordinary people can create extraordinary change. Whether it’s powering homes in Africa, protecting the Amazon, ensuring children can read, or strengthening communities in New York, activism works when people come together.
This year’s festival was proof that music can move hearts, and collective action can move mountains.