Rihanna is making her highly anticipated return to the stage at the Super Bowl halftime show this Sunday. The Barbados-born global superstar is not only known for her music, but also for her entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts. With a net worth of $1.7 billion, Rihanna is the wealthiest female musician in the world.
In 2012, Rihanna founded the Clara Lionel Foundation, which advocates for social and environmental justice projects in the U.S. and the Caribbean. The foundation is named in honor of Rihanna's grandparents, Clara and Lionel. Justine Lucas, the Executive Director of the foundation, stated that CLF invests in climate justice initiatives, leaders, and movements, and works on climate resilience projects in the Caribbean to help communities withstand natural disasters.
The foundation made a significant impact in its first year when it invested $1.75 million to supply the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados with its first modern radiotherapy equipment. Since then, the foundation has evolved, investing in the infrastructure of health clinics, shelters, and schools to withstand category 5 hurricanes, and working with schools and health clinics in the Caribbean to ensxqure they are climate resilient.
Rihanna's philanthropic efforts extend beyond environmental and social justice. The Clara Lionel Foundation has leveraged nearly $50 million in giving back in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in support of racial justice, following the murder of George Floyd. Additionally, the foundation has set up scholarship programs to support students from Barbados to pursue higher education.
In conclusion, Rihanna's philanthropic efforts through the Clara Lionel Foundation show her dedication to making a positive impact on the world. From investing in modern medical equipment to supporting education and communities in need, Rihanna is using her influence and resources for the greater good.
