IN a world often steeped in glamour, dazzling lights and the allure of the red carpet, witnessing celebrities assume the role of real-life heroes is undeniably uplifting.
Beyond the glitz of flashing lights and cinematic screens, many stars utilise their influence to foster positive change in society.
While some opt to showcase their extravagant lifestyles, others consciously choose to allocate their time and resources towards enhancing the well-being of others, aiming to make a positive difference within their communities.
Whether through the establishment of personal charity foundations or contributions to diverse philanthropic endeavours, this compilation spotlights six celebrities who have played a crucial role in making a difference in the lives of people worldwide.
Angelina Jolie
Since 2001, Jolie has been actively engaged in humanitarian work, with a specific focus on refugee missions.
Her commitment led to her appointment as Special Envoy to the UNHCR, where she has advocated for refugees’ rights and raised awareness about displaced populations in over 30 countries.
Jolie’s hands-on approach is evident through nearly 60 field missions undertaken to address the challenges faced by displaced communities.
In 2003, she established the Jolie-Pitt Foundation with her ex-husband Brad Pitt, emphasising their shared dedication to supporting global humanitarian causes.
Jolie’s impact extends beyond financial contributions – she actively supports various humanitarian endeavours, including women’s rights, education and healthcare.
Her commitment to creating positive change underscores the transformative influence celebrities can wield beyond the realms of the silver screen.
Leonardo DiCaprio
DiCaprio, celebrated for his remarkable acting career, has gained equal renown for his unwavering dedication to environmental causes.
The Oscar-winning actor established the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation in 1998, with a focus on ensuring the long-term health and well-being of the earth’s inhabitants.
The foundation actively supports projects and initiatives centred around climate change, wildlife conservation and renewable energy.
As a UN Messenger of Peace, DiCaprio utilises his influential platform to raise awareness about climate change and advocate for sustainable solutions. His commitment is not confined to rhetoric, rather, he actively engages in impactful initiatives.
Through documentaries like Before the Flood and his vocal presence at global forums, DiCaprio underscores the significant role that celebrity activism can play in addressing urgent issues that impact everyone.
Oprah Winfrey
Winfrey, a media mogul and cultural icon, has transcended her role as a talk show host to become a philanthropic force.
Known for her generosity and commitment to education, Winfrey has donated millions of dollars to various causes, with a particular emphasis on providing educational opportunities to those in need.
In 2007, she founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, offering a world-class education to underprivileged girls.
Her focus on empowering individuals through knowledge and self-discovery illustrates the profound impact celebrities can have on shaping a better future.
Matthew McConaughey
The laid-back Texan, known for his charismatic performances, has emerged as a beacon of hope for communities in need.
Alongside his wife Camila Alves, McConaughey established the Just Keep Livin Foundation in 2008, aiming to empower high school students to lead active lives and make healthy choices.
The foundation provides after-school programmes in underserved communities, fostering a sense of community, wellness and responsibility.
McConaughey’s hands-on involvement and genuine passion for making a difference highlight the transformative impact celebrities can have when they actively engage with the causes they support.
Taylor Swift
Singer-songwriter Swift has earned acclaim not only for her musical prowess but also for her notable philanthropy.
Throughout her career, she has generously donated to various charitable causes and provided support to her fans. In 2016, Swift contributed US$1 million (RM4.6 million) to aid Louisiana flood victims, showcasing her commitment to disaster relief efforts.
Her benevolence extends to healthcare, with a significant donation of US$100,000 (RM462,000) to Cancer Research. In a noteworthy gesture to support education and the arts, Swift allocated US$60,000 (RM278,000) to the music departments of six US colleges.
Moreover, during the Covid-19 pandemic, she demonstrated her global perspective by donating to the World Health Organisation and contributing to Feeding America.
In a bid to raise funds for the National Health Service, Swift offered one of her signed guitars as part of an auction, further emphasising her dedication to making a positive impact during challenging times.
Beyonce
Beyond her influence in music and pop culture, Beyonce stands out as a dedicated philanthropist.
Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, she established the Survivor Foundation, whose initial mission was to provide housing and assistance to families that had been displaced.
It has since grown to provide aid for a variety of hurricanes. Beyonce is also a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, in addition to her efforts in natural disaster relief.
She and Jay-Z donated US$1.5 million (RM6.9 million) to civil rights organisations in August 2016, including Black Lives Matter, Hands Up United and Dream Defenders.
Together with the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People), Beyonce established the Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund in July 2020, which rewards black-owned small businesses in need with US$10,000 (RM46,000) in grants.
With the assistance of revenue generated from her single Black Parade, the fund had amassed a total of US$7.15 million (RM33 million) for small businesses owned by African Americans as of Dec 31, 2020.
