Shakira has now been immortalized in iron…literally. Just like legend Sammy Sosa became an icon in the center of his hometown in the Dominican Republic, Latina pop-star Shakira shined in Barranquilla, Columbia yesterday, with the unveiling of a 15-foot, six-ton iron statue in her honor.

She returned the nod by performing a concert later that evening to the throes of fans that loved her so much they gave the little birdies this to perch on. The statue arrived by boat, donated by German artist Dieter Patt. After viewing the statue at a fundraiser in Germany, she said, “I want people to think that any girl can start working on her dreams and that they will come true."

The donation came as a result of her philanthropic efforts, as she has opened six schools in the area, rivaling Angelina Jolie for the hottest humanitarian of the year. Her program, “Pies Descalzos" Foundation, helps unprotected children.

Pratt told the Columbian newspaper “El Tiempo” that "Shakira thinks that (Barranquilla's) airport is visited only for those who can travel by plane, and that she wants for all young people to see it and keep going," that is why she asked for it to be placed in her hometown's center.

Place Shakira erects … joke here.