Within her birthday month, Rihanna will receive a prestigious title at the NAACP Image Awards ceremony (Feb. 22). The “Diamonds” singer will be honored with the President’s Award that highlights individuals for “special achievement and distinguished public service.”
According to Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO, Rihanna’s business resume alone has made her a top contender for the prize. In 2019, Jay-Z received that award, joining a legion of the likes of Muhammad Ali, Lauryn Hill, Soledad O’Brien and more.
“Rihanna has not only enjoyed a groundbreaking career as an artist and musician, but has also distinguished herself as a stellar public servant,” Johnson said. “From her business achievements through Fenty, to her tremendous record as an activist and philanthropist, Rihanna epitomizes the type of character, grace, and devotion to justice that we seek to highlight in our President’s Award.”
Outside of her musical achievements and an upcoming album, Rihanna has remained steadfast in her philanthropy efforts through her Clara Lionel Foundation. The organization is aiming its focus on climate change and providing help to countries with limited resources to combat natural disasters.
Watch Rihanna’s acceptance speech at the NAACP Image Awards above.