Michael Buckner/Penske Media
While global icons like Rihanna, Elton John, and Shakira are accustomed to accolades for their musical triumphs, TIME is now spotlighting a different, perhaps more profound legacy: their dedication to humanitarian efforts.
On Thursday, May 14, the publication unveiled its inaugural TIME100 Philanthropy list, which prominently features all three artists. Rihanna was distinguished in the “Trailblazers” category for her unwavering commitment to the Clara Lionel Foundation. Established in 2012 in honor of her grandmother, the foundation has directed over $100 million toward critical areas including climate resilience, healthcare, arts education, and emergency response across the Caribbean, East Africa, and the United States.
The list also honors Sir Elton John and his husband, David Furnish, for their multi-decade crusade against the HIV/AIDS epidemic through the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Shakira was recognized for her transformative work with the Barefoot Foundation, which has fostered educational equity in Colombia by building schools and training thousands of educators. Additionally, the list celebrates Willie Nelson’s enduring efforts with Farm Aid and disaster relief, alongside Chance The Rapper, who has championed public education in Chicago through his SocialWorks nonprofit.
Regarding the selection process, the publication stated that they collaborated with correspondents worldwide to narrow down a vast field of candidates to 100 individuals who exemplify the most impactful stories in a sector that oversees over $1 trillion in annual global giving.
“By sharing the narratives of the world’s most influential advocates, leaders, and givers, we aim to motivate others to contribute and to highlight the transformative power this work has on our collective future,” TIME noted.
The list further highlights notable figures such as Idris and Sabrina Elba, Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw, Susan and Michael Dell, and Lionel Messi. This new honor arrives alongside TIME’s traditional annual rankings; the 2026 “Most Influential” list previously spotlighted stars like JENNIE of BLACKPINK, Luke Combs, Noah Kahan, and Dakota Johnson.
