Rihanna’s homeland of Barbados has honored her in a huge way.
On Monday night (Nov. 29), the “Love On The Brain” singer was named a National Hero by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley in a ceremony marking the country’s split from the United Kingdom. “On behalf of a grateful nation, but an even prouder people, we therefore present to you, the designee, for National Hero of Barbados, ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty,” the prime minister told Rih in a clip that was shared to social media.
“May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honor to your nation by your works, by your actions and to do credit wherever you shall go,” Mottley added, referring to Rih’s 2012 hit “Diamonds.”
So far, the honor of National Hero has been given to 11 people — and the makeup and fashion mogul is only the second woman to receive it.
Barbados is officially a republic after cutting ties with Queen Elizabeth II and the British Royal Family. Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, was also in attendance at the ceremony, where he spoke about Britain’s grim history of slavery. “From the darkest days of our past, and the appalling atrocity of slavery, which forever stains our history, the people of this island forged their path with extraordinary fortitude,” he said.
“Emancipation, self-government and independence were your way-points. Freedom, justice and self-determination have been your guides. Your long journey has brought you to this moment, not as your destination, but as a vantage point from which to survey a new horizon,” Charles added.
Back in 2008, the Good Girl Gone Bad vocalist became one of the island’s cultural ambassadors — where she did work for the country’s tourism ministry. Ten years later, Rihanna was named ambassador of Barbados, giving her the responsibility to promote tourism, education and investment for the island.
Check out a video of the ceremony below.