Patricia Mebarak (Shakira's sister) Wiki, Age, Husband
While in the same breath that global star Shakira is at the top of the music industry, her older half sister Patricia Mebarak is leading a very inspired life in the background. As a dedicated special education teacher and social advocate, Patricia has put it all into her work, which is to help children with learning issues and disabilities.
Early Life and Family Background
Patricia Mebarak Otero was born in 1974 in Barranquilla, Colombia, to a large and diverse family. Born as the daughter of William Mebarak Chadid and Nidia Lucila Otero. Father William, a man with Lebanese heritage, that was also a writer, jewelry designer which also passed to his which also passed on to his children a legacy of artistic and intellectual passion.
Patricia is a member of William’s first set of nine children. After her mom died in 1973, it was in the company of her brothers and sisters that Patricia grew up in Barranquilla. Also in the neighborhood grew up her famous half sister Shakira, who was born in 1977 to William and his 2nd wife, Nidia Ripoll, and the two of them developed a very strong and loving relationship that has continued for years.
Education and Academic Pursuits
Patricia chose to study Literature and Journalism at the Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla, which was in part inspired by her father’s love of books and in large part by her wish to make a difference in the world. Also, she went to Spain, where she pursued her studies in Special Education at the University of Barcelona and the University of Girona.
Her training has given her what it takes to teach special needs students and also push out there for more inclusive models of education in which all can participate.
Career as a Special Needs Teacher
Patricia Mebarak has had a career marked by her compassion and service. In the early 2000s, she moved to Barcelona, which is when she began to teach in public schools. Her students have included those with autism, Down syndrome, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities.
Her focus on getting these children to achieve what they can has won Patricia the support of parents, colleagues, and educational institutions. Also of note is that Patricia’s work with UNICEF, Save the Children, and Shakira’s Barefoot Foundation, which is dedicated to the education of underprivileged children.
Beyond what is in the classroom, Patricia is very much a part of organizing and bringing to light issues related to World Down Syndrome Day and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which in turn promotes the cause of inclusion and equal rights for all.
Personal Life and Husband
Patricia married Alberto Botía, who is a past Spanish professional footballer who saw action as a defender for Sporting Gijón, Barcelona, Sevilla, Olympiacos, and Al-Wehda. Also at the 2012 Summer Olympics, he played for Spain, for which he won a silver medal.
In 2010, the couple met, married in 2014 in a private ceremony in Barcelona, and they have two children, William (born 2015) and Nidia (born 2017). At present, they live a very peaceful family life in Spain.
Bond with Shakira
Patricia and Shakira may be on separate roads in life, but they have a very strong sisterly bond. At family get-togethers, concerts, and charity events, Patricia is there supporting Shakira. Also, she is a part of the boys’ -- Milan and Sasha’s -- lives, which they in turn have taken to calling Titi Pati.
The sisters put out very public displays of love to the world, which include annual birthday celebrations, milestone achievements of all sorts, with in-depth posts that tell of their very large love for each other.
Net Worth and Recognition
As of 2023, Patricia Mebarak’s net worth is reported to be in the range of $1.5 million, which is from her teaching, which also includes her social initiatives. Though very private in life, her commitment to education and her empathy for others’ issues make her a role model beyond what is known of her public life.
Conclusion
Patricia Mebarak is more known as a personality in her own right, beyond being Shakira’s sister. As a dedicated teacher, wife, and mother, she has picked a path of service and empathy. Her story, which is an inspiration to many, proves that we don’t have to look at fame as the yardstick for success, but rather in the positive change that we bring into the lives of others.