There’s no denying Demi Lovato has a heart of gold… And, now she’s being recognized for giving back to the community.
The 19-year-old part-Mexican singer/actress—who has become a mental health advocate following her own personal struggles this years—has been named as one of this year’s Top 20 Celebs Gone Good, courtesy of DoSomething.org.
Lovato, who didn’t shy away from her personal struggles in 2011, landed at No. 10.
The former star of Disney’s Sonny with a Chance—who recently took on her former employer via Twitter after an inappropriate eating disorder joke—partnered with the Jed Foundation to get people talking about bullying and body image through her “Love is Louder Than the Pressure to Be Perfect” campaign.
As part of her quest to get girls to take action, Lovato opened up about her own personal struggles by acting as a spokesperson and guest editor for Seventeen magazine.
But Lovato wasn’t the only Latina making the list.
Colombian superstar Shakira, who was named the 2011 Person of the Year by the Latin Recording Academy, ranked at No. 11. The 34-year-old singing sensation has dedicated her life to promoting the importance of education. Last month, the Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF visited India to promote learning among girls in impoverished areas. Earlier this year, Shakira was appointed to the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.
Meanwhile, part-Spanish actress Lea Michele entered the Celebs Gone Good list for the first time at No. 16. The Glee star and animal-rights activist has been using her powerful voice to call for a ban on horse-drawn carriages. Michele, a devoted advocate for PETA, even filmed a shocking video that shows the brutal conditions the horses endure. And she encourages her followers to get involved by tweeting information about animal cruelty.
For the first time, DoSomething.org incorporated Facebook voting to help determine the impact of celebrities reaching an audience with their cause. Criteria required stars to do more than simply give money, but to take action such as building houses, writing articles or founding an organization. Other entertainers making the list are Lady Gaga, who came in at No. 1, Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift.
Click here to see the complete list of the Top 20 Celebs Gone Good.