In today’s globalized world, celebrity is no longer confined to one’s home country. Movie stars, musicians, athletes, designers, and entrepreneurs are among the many groups of people who have “made it big” by sharing the uniqueness of their talent and culture with the global community. The following photo story highlights some of these personalities, many of whom have also used their celebrity to improve the lives of others less fortunate. For example, a well-known humanitarian, Congolese basketball star Dikembe Mutombo, below, donated millions to open the first modern medical facility in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. Mutombo, of the Houston Rockets basketball team, is flanked by teammates Chinese star Yao Ming and American David Wesley. (All images © AP/WWP)