On Sunday, September 28, 2025, the 13th edition of the Global Citizen Festival took place on the iconic Great Lawn in Central Park, New York City. This year’s event brought together an impressive lineup of performers, activists, world leaders, and passionate global citizens to shine a spotlight on the world’s most pressing issues. Headlined by international superstars Shakira and Cardi B, the festival combined powerful music performances with impactful activism, using the stage as a platform to advocate for social change and encourage proactive steps toward solving global challenges.
Shakira, widely known for her exceptional musical talent and humanitarian work, captivated the audience with a performance that resonated beyond entertainment. Throughout her career, the Colombian singer has been an outspoken advocate for education, children’s rights, and environmental sustainability. At this year’s festival, she used her platform to highlight the urgent need for global solutions to issues such as poverty, gender inequality, and climate change. Her presence at the event underscored her commitment to using her fame for the greater good, sparking conversations about how artists and influencers can play a pivotal role in shaping public perception and inspiring action.
Alongside Shakira, Cardi B took the stage with her signature boldness and charisma. The rapper and entrepreneur has become a powerful voice for social justice, often addressing issues related to inequality and systemic injustice. Her involvement in the Global Citizen Festival amplified her advocacy, emphasizing the importance of fighting for marginalized communities and amplifying voices that have been historically silenced. Cardi B’s performance wasn’t just about entertainment; it was a call to action, urging her fans and the broader audience to stand up and demand change in areas such as healthcare access, racial justice, and economic equity.
While the musical performances were undeniably a highlight of the festival, the Global Citizen event was more than just a concert. The festival served as a crucial meeting point for individuals, organizations, and leaders from across the world to discuss and promote sustainable development, equality, and global cooperation. Attendees were not only entertained, but also encouraged to take part in various initiatives aimed at making a tangible impact. Throughout the event, participants were urged to take action by signing petitions, raising their voices in support of policy changes, and even contributing to the Global Citizen movement through financial pledges.
This year’s event also underscored the intersection of music, culture, and activism. The presence of global icons like Shakira and Cardi B reminded everyone that the entertainment industry is not only a source of joy and escape but also a powerful tool for advocacy and change. As the festival progressed, world leaders and corporate representatives made meaningful commitments to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the need for collaborative efforts in addressing issues such as climate change, global poverty, and access to education.
In addition to the musical acts, other cultural moments, discussions, and performances took place, further solidifying the event as a dynamic platform for global change. The festival served as a reminder that addressing the world’s most pressing issues requires collective action—one that transcends industries, cultures, and borders. As the 2025 Global Citizen Festival concluded, it was clear that the event had successfully blended entertainment with a call to action, proving that global citizenship and activism are essential for shaping a better future for all. Through music, activism, and collaboration, the festival reaffirmed the idea that each person, regardless of their background or location, has a role to play in creating a more just and sustainable world.