There’s no doubt that Rihanna has accomplished a bunch since she scored her first hit in 2005 with “Pon de Replay,” and the NAACP has recognized her for it.
On Tuesday, Feb. 4, it was announced that the pop star, fashion influencer and businesswoman will receive the President’s Award during the 51st NAACP Image Awards. The honor is a “Recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service,” as described by a press release.
The honor will be handed to Rihanna by NAACP President Derrick Johnson on Saturday, Feb. 22, in Pasadena, California, which will air live on BET.
Jay-Z was last year’s recipient, and other people who have received the honor include Lauryn Hill, Soledad O’Brien, Condoleezza Rice, Jesse Jackson, Muhammad Ali and Colin Powell.
“Rihanna has not only enjoyed a groundbreaking career as an artist and musician but has also distinguished herself as a stellar public servant,” said Johnson in a statement.
“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,” he added.
On the music side of things, the Barbadian singer has racked up 9 Grammy Awards and a long list of hits. Her management company Roc Nation said she’s sold at least 60 million albums so far in addition to that.
In terms of philanthropy, Rihanna has helped many with her Clara Lionel Foundation by doing things like giving scholarships to students.
As a businesswoman, Rihanna made history last year when she and her Fenty line partnered with French luxury goods conglomerate LVMH, which made the “Man Down” singer the first Black woman to head her own line under the brand.
