Guyanese-British model and actress Shakira Baksh hails a London taxi, UK, 30th April 1971. She married actor Michael Caine in 1973. (Photo by Dove/Daily Express/Getty Images)
Published: 25th of July, 2024 by Patrick Carpen
Last updated: July 25, 2024 at 15:27 pm
A simple country girl from humble beginnings, Shakira Baksh-Caine went on to do great things with her life. She is a reminder that life is full of unlimited possibilities, and an inspiration to young people, both male and female, to remain optimistic and dare to dream, regardless of their current circumstances or background.
Despite being strongly criticized for “never looking back,” for disowning or neglecting her Guyanese heritage, the fact remains that Shakira was born in Guyana, in St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Region 4, and she has made her country proud. After decades of happy marriage and a successful career, Shakira and her husband, Michael Caine remain a shining example of a personal and professional success story.
Shakira Baksh Caine was born in St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Region 4, on February 23rd, 1947. Her parents were Guyanese Muslims of East Indian descent. Her mother was a dressmaker and Shakira dreamed of following in her mother’s footsteps. However, she took it to a much higher level, promoting fashion through a successful modeling career in the UK.
In 1967, at the age of 19, Shakira won the Miss Guyana Beauty Pageant. In the same year, she placed third in the Miss World contest held London. Baksh went on to become a successful fashion model and actress in the UK. In 1973, she got married to British actor Michael Caine who said he fell in love with her after seeing her in a television commercial. The couple share one child and two grandchildren.
