How Celebrities Are Fighting Global Poverty

EDINBURGH, United Kingdom — Many high-profile figures use their fame and influence to champion causes aimed at eradicating global poverty. From Hollywood A-listers to chart-topping musicians, these celebrities leverage their platforms to shed light on the plight of the world’s most vulnerable populations and support charities dedicated to alleviating suffering and fostering sustainable development. The following highlights the work of celebrities who have become allies in fighting global poverty, detailing their contributions, motivations and the profound impact they have on shaping a more equitable world.

Macklemore

Macklemore, the Grammy-winning rapper known for his socially conscious lyrics, has been an outspoken advocate for fighting global poverty through his philanthropic endeavors. Partnering with organizations like the Global Poverty Project and the United Nations (U.N.) Foundation, Macklemore has lent his voice and resources to campaigns aimed at raising awareness and driving action toward ending poverty worldwide. His involvement spans initiatives ranging from access to clean water and sanitation to economic empowerment and education in impoverished communities. Through benefit concerts, public appeals and strategic collaborations, Macklemore continues to use his platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized and inspire positive change on a global scale. 

Macklemore’s commitment to social justice extends beyond traditional philanthropy, as evidenced by his recent release of a single in support of Palestine. With this poignant musical offering, Macklemore amplifies the voices of Palestinians and sheds light on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. The song not only serves as a powerful expression of solidarity but also catalyzes crucial conversations surrounding the ongoing genocide and the need for meaningful action to address the root causes of suffering. Through his artistry and activism, Macklemore continues to challenge the status quo and advocate for a more just and equitable world for all.

Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson, the acclaimed British actress, screenwriter and activist, has long been a beacon of philanthropy and social justice. Her dedication to humanitarian causes is exemplified through her partnership with ActionAid, a global organization committed to combating poverty and injustice worldwide. Thompson’s involvement with ActionAid spans decades, where she has utilized her platform to raise awareness and funds for various initiatives, including women’s rights, education, and economic empowerment in some of the world’s most marginalized communities. She has been an advocate for the organization since 2002 and has traveled to many countries to see how ActionAid operates and helps the lives of young women and girls, as well as supporting campaigns on HIV/AIDS. Through her unwavering commitment and passionate advocacy, Thompson continues to inspire others to join the fight for a more equitable and just world. 

Prince William

Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, has emerged as a prominent advocate for global poverty alleviation, leveraging his platform to support various charities dedicated to this cause. Through his patronage and active involvement, Prince William has played a pivotal role in organizations such as the British Red Cross and the U.N. Refugee Agency, which work tirelessly to address the needs of migrants and refugees worldwide, his most recent visit to the British Red Cross being on February 20th 2024, in which he expressed deep concern for the events unfolding in the Middle East.

Beyond ceremonial duties, Prince William’s engagement often involves on-the-ground visits, fundraising endeavors and advocacy efforts aimed at combating the root causes of poverty and fostering sustainable development. His genuine commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale serves as a course of inspiration for individuals and communities striving to build a more equitable and prosperous world.

Prince William has also extended his philanthropic efforts beyond national boundaries by supporting global charities like Oxfam International, which operates in more than 90 countries worldwide, tackling issues such as poverty, inequality and injustice. Through his involvement with Oxfam and similar organizations, Prince William has contributed to initiatives ranging from emergency relief in conflict zones to sustainable development projects in marginalized communities. Prince William underscores the importance of collective action in addressing the interconnected challenges facing humanity and strives to make a positive impact on a global scale.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh, the internationally acclaimed actress and humanitarian, has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting global charities dedicated to fighting global poverty and promoting sustainable development. Through her involvement with organizations such as UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP), Yeoh has advocated for the rights and well-being of children and facilities in some of the world’s most impoverished regions.

Since living through the devastating earthquake in Nepal in April 2015, her efforts have ranged from raising awareness about the importance of education and health care to participating in fundraising campaigns and field visits to witness firsthand the impact of humanitarian aid. She has since traveled back to Nepal as a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador and delivered a parliamentary address to urge action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and increase awareness about disaster preparation and risk reduction.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Yeoh teamed up with the U.N., Project Everyone and 72 Films to feature in ‘Nations United: Urgent Solutions for Urgent Times’, a film that aired as part of the SDG moment held at the beginning of the high-level segment of the 2020 United Nation’s General Assembly session. But Yeoh hasn’t stopped there: in 2023, she published an opinion essay in The New York Times the day after her Oscar win, calling for true gender equality. By leveraging her platform and influence, Yeoh amplifies the voices of the marginalized and advocates for meaningful change on a global scale, embodying the spirit of compassion and solidarity in the fight against poverty.

Olivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo, the chart-topping singer-songwriter and emerging voice for social change, has used her platform to shine a spotlight on global issues, including poverty and inequality. While relatively early in her career, Rodrigo has already demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy and activism. Through her support of organizations like UNICEF and Save the Children, she has championed initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children and families affected by poverty around the world.

Rodrigo’s influence extends beyond her music, as she actively engages with her fan base to raise awareness and funds for these important causes. Olivia Rodrigo has also announced her new charity fund, Fund 4 Good while on her Guts World Tour. In a video posted on TikTok, she explained that by launching her new initiative she is hoping to help fund a range of programs that protect the reproductive health freedom of women, girls and people who menstruate. By leveraging her popularity and creativity, Rodrigo inspires a new generation to take action and make a difference in the fight against global poverty.

Lin-Manuel Miranda

Lin-Manuel Miranda, the Tony and Grammy Award-winning playwright, composer and actor has utilized his artistic talents and platform to advocate for global poverty alleviation and social justice. Miranda’s involvement with organizations such as the Hispanic Federation and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) highlights his dedication to supporting vulnerable communities both domestically and internationally. For instance, Miranda took his award-winning musical ‘Hamilton’ to Puerto Rico for two weeks in June 2023 to raise funds for the Hispanic Federation and the education-based nonprofit, the Flamboyan Federation.

Through benefit performances, fundraising efforts and public advocacy, Miranda has raised awareness about issues such as access to education, health care and economic opportunities for marginalized populations. His groundbreaking work, including the critically acclaimed musical “Hamilton,” catalyzes conversations about historical narratives, identity and the pursuit of equity. Miranda’s unwavering commitment to fighting global poverty and making a positive impact on a global scale embodies the transformative power of art and activism in addressing the root causes of poverty and fostering a more inclusive society.

Looking Ahead

The sustained commitment of high-profile figures like Macklemore, Emma Thompson and Lin-Manuel Miranda to global poverty alleviation continues to inspire collective action and drive meaningful change. Their diverse ongoing efforts, from direct philanthropy to advocacy through art, highlight the power of celebrity influence in rallying support for critical issues affecting vulnerable populations. As these celebrities leverage their platforms to champion social justice, their actions help shape a more equitable world, demonstrating that fame could indeed serve as a force for good in fighting global poverty.

– Eva McMonigle

Eva is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr