Behind every global superstar, there’s often an extraordinary parent quietly shaping their journey. For Shakira, one of the most celebrated Latin pop sensations of all time, that person is her mother, Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado. While Shakira captivates audiences worldwide with her dynamic performances, her mother stands as a pillar of strength, discipline, and unwavering support. This article delves into the life of Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado, a woman whose influence has been instrumental in molding Shakira into the icon she is today.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado |
| Date of Birth | February 7, 1950 |
| Age | 74 years (as of 2024) |
| Nationality | Colombian |
| Ethnicity | Lebanese-Catalan |
| Profession | Former Dentist |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | 80 kg |
| Spouse | William Mebarak Chadid |
| Children | 1 biological (Shakira), 8 stepchildren |
| Net Worth | Undisclosed |
| Known For | Being the mother of Shakira, Latin pop sensation |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Religion | Christianity |
Early Life and Background
Born in Barranquilla, Colombia on February 7, 1950, Nidia Ripoll grew up in a middle-class family. Her roots trace back to Lebanese and Catalan ancestry, which has given her a rich cultural heritage. This blend of traditions influenced how she raised her daughter, emphasizing the importance of family, culture, and perseverance.
Nidia pursued a degree in dentistry at the prestigious Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla. It was during her university years that she met William Mebarak Chadid, a Lebanese-American author and entrepreneur. Their shared values and aspirations led to a lifelong partnership.
Personal Life and Family
Nidia’s marriage to William Mebarak Chadid marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Together, they built a family filled with love, resilience, and cultural pride. While Nidia had only one biological child—Shakira—she also embraced William’s eight children from his previous marriage, becoming a devoted stepmother.
Their family dynamic is unique, with step-siblings from various backgrounds contributing to a rich and supportive household. Among them, Tonino Mebarak, Shakira’s half-brother, plays a vital role as her road manager, reflecting the close-knit relationships Nidia has fostered over the years.
Shaping Shakira’s Career
Nidia recognized Shakira’s talent at an early age. A pivotal moment occurred when young Shakira spontaneously danced in a restaurant, captivating everyone with her natural rhythm. This moment wasn’t just a child’s playful act; it was the spark of a future star. Nidia encouraged her daughter to nurture her talents, enrolling her in modeling and performance classes at the Passarela Academy.
As a mother, Nidia balanced encouragement with discipline. She ensured Shakira excelled academically while exploring her creative passions. “My mother is the reality check,” Shakira once said, highlighting Nidia’s role in keeping her grounded and focused on her goals.
Physical Appearance and Characteristics
Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado is often described as a graceful and elegant woman. She stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and weighs approximately 80 kg. With her light brown hair and warm smile, Nidia exudes a comforting presence that reflects her nurturing personality.
Despite her elegant appearance, Nidia prefers a private life away from the spotlight. She rarely engages in public appearances, choosing instead to support her daughter behind the scenes. This discretion has earned her admiration from fans and media alike, who appreciate her humility and dedication.
Net Worth and Public Presence
While Nidia’s personal net worth remains undisclosed, her influence on Shakira’s career is invaluable. Shakira, with a staggering net worth of approximately $300 million, credits much of her success to her mother’s guidance and support. Nidia’s role extends beyond financial contributions; she has been a constant source of emotional and moral support throughout Shakira’s journey.
Nidia’s preference for privacy means she is not active on social media. However, she occasionally accompanies Shakira to major events, offering a glimpse into their close bond. Her presence at red-carpet events and family gatherings highlights the strong family ties that continue to shape Shakira’s life.
Influence on Cultural and Social Values
Nidia’s influence extends beyond family life. Her Lebanese-Catalan heritage instilled in Shakira a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. This multicultural background is evident in Shakira’s music, which often blends elements of Latin, Arabic, and global rhythms. Songs like “Ojos Así” and “Whenever, Wherever” reflect the rich tapestry of influences that Nidia encouraged her daughter to embrace.
Moreover, Nidia’s emphasis on social responsibility has inspired Shakira’s philanthropic efforts. The establishment of the Pies Descalzos Foundation, which provides education and support to underprivileged children in Colombia, is a testament to the values Nidia instilled in her daughter.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
As Shakira’s career continues to flourish, Nidia remains a guiding force in her life. While her backstage presence has diminished over the years, her influence is ever-present. Whether it’s offering advice, babysitting Shakira’s children—Sasha and Milan—or simply being a listening ear, Nidia’s role as a mother and mentor is unwavering.
Her legacy is one of quiet strength, resilience, and unconditional love. In a world where fame often overshadows personal values, Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado stands as a beacon of humility and dedication.
FAQs
1. Who is Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado?
Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado is the mother of Colombian singer and global superstar Shakira. She is known for her role in shaping Shakira’s career and supporting her family with unwavering dedication.
2. What is Nidia Ripoll’s cultural background?
Nidia Ripoll is of Lebanese and Catalan descent, which has significantly influenced her values and parenting style.
3. What is Nidia Ripoll’s profession?
Nidia was a trained dentist before retiring to focus on raising her family and supporting her daughter’s career.
4. How did Nidia influence Shakira’s career?
Nidia recognized Shakira’s talent early on and encouraged her to pursue music and performance. She enrolled Shakira in talent academies and supported her during auditions and competitions.
5. What is Nidia Ripoll’s net worth?
While her personal net worth is undisclosed, her daughter Shakira has a net worth of around $300 million, a success largely attributed to Nidia’s guidance and support.
6. How many children does Nidia have?
Nidia has one biological daughter, Shakira, and is a stepmother to eight children from her husband William Mebarak Chadid’s previous marriage.
7. Is Nidia active on social media?
No, Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado prefers a private life and does not engage in social media activities.
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