It’s going to be a diamond-in-the-sky moment for Rihanna at the 51st NAACP Image Awards come February 22, as the 31-year-old singer and fashion executive has been named recipient of the President’s Award.
“Rihanna has not only enjoyed a groundbreaking career as an artist and musician, but has also distinguished herself as a stellar public servant,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “From her business achievements through [her cosmetics line] 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.”
The honoree category which recognizes special achievement and distinguished public service will be given Rihanna her professional work as well as her commitment to social activism and philanthropy. As part of her philanthropic duties, Rihanna founded the Clara Lionel Foundation in 2012, which is solely committed to aiding underserved communities through health care and education.
A global icon in all standards, the ‘Umbrella’ singer has sold over 250 million records worldwide and in addition holds on record nine Grammy Awards, thirteen American Music Awards and twelve Billboard Music Awards with six Guinness World Records. She is also the founder of cosmetic brand Fenty Beauty and fashion house Fenty under LVMH.
Past recipients of the NAACP Presidential Award include; Jay-Z, Jesse Jackson, Lauryn Hill, Soledad O’Brie, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice and Muhammad Ali.
The event is slated to take place at Pasadena, California live on BET. Johnson will present Rihanna with the award.
