06:00, 16 May 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Carlos Slim Helú, one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, is a man whose name has become synonymous with business success in Latin America.
Born in Mexico City in 1940 to Lebanese immigrant parents, Slim showed an early aptitude for finance and commerce. He began investing in stocks at just 11 years old and went on to study civil engineering at the National Autonomous University of Mexico.
Over decades, Slim built a sprawling empire spanning telecommunications, construction, finance, and retail, with his flagship company, América Móvil, becoming the largest mobile phone operator in Latin America and the richest man in the world from 2010 to 2013.
Though often compared to American moguls like Warren Buffett or Bill Gates, Slim has carved his own unique path - particularly in philanthropy.
Carlos’ approach to giving stands apart from most of the philanthropists we have covered on Smiley News. Rather than establishing a foundation to dispense large grants or pledging to give away the bulk of his fortune, he champions a form of philanthropy that aligns closely with sustainable development and economic empowerment.
Through the Carlos Slim Foundation, established in 1986, he has invested billions in initiatives focused on education, health care, infrastructure, and disaster relief. Notably, the foundation has been instrumental in providing digital education resources across Latin America, aiming to close the technological gap and equip the youth with skills vital for the modern economy.
One of Slim’s most impactful contributions has been in healthcare. He has partnered with organisations such as the Gates Foundation and the Spanish government to combat disease in Latin America, particularly through vaccination programmes and maternal health initiatives. His philanthropic work also extended to rebuilding efforts after the devastating 2017 earthquakes in Mexico, where his foundation contributed significant funds for housing and infrastructure restoration.
What distinguishes Slim most is his philosophy: that the best form of philanthropy lies in creating opportunities. "Charity is not enough," he has often said. “You have to teach people to fish, not give them the fish.”
This ethos underpins his belief that economic development and job creation are the most powerful tools for lifting people out of poverty. His companies often serve as engines of growth in the communities where they operate, providing employment and vital services.
Slim’s pragmatic and often understated approach to giving may not fit the mould of high-profile philanthropy seen elsewhere, but its impact is undeniable.
By focusing on long-term investment in human capital and economic infrastructure, Carlos Slim Helú has redefined what it means to give back - not as a form of charity, but as a form of responsibility and vision for a more equitable future.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Fundación Carlos Slim Helú. This foundation focuses on education, health, and social development. It has partnered with various international organisations to implement projects aimed at reducing poverty and improving quality of life in Latin America. Find out more.
Save The Children Mexico. This division of the international charity has helped many children in Mexico through programs in education, health and hygiene, nutrition, violence prevention. Learn more here.
Mariposas. Mariposas is a charitable organisation based in Mexico that hosts programs that empower young women from rural communities. Support them here.
