Over the weekend, Rihanna was the recipient of the Rock Star award at Black Girls Rock!, an awards show dedicated to honouring black women in music. Put on by BET, the evening was an inspiring celebration that provided a lot to take home, even if you weren’t in the specific demographic they were focussing on.
In her speech, it was more than just the award that Rihanna was accepting. She was also accepting herself. Talking about the strongest women in her life, her mother and grandmother, she discussed how important they were for her, and what she learned by being raised by such strong women. She also highlighted that although the world gets crazy and confusing, she has learned to love herself, saying she now doesn’t want to be anyone else.
“The only thing that’s kept me going is being myself, and the minute you learn to love yourself, you would not want to be anybody else”
It’s an important moment in pop culture and in Rihanna’s life, as she is not often looked up to in such an inspiring way. However, thanks to her taking the time to create her sensational album ANTI, and stepping into a new chapter in her life and career, she is now beginning to be seen as a role model and a source of inspiration. She said in her speech,“Role model is not the title they like to give me, which is why tonight, it is so important. I know I am inspiring girls to be themselves and that’s half the battle.” Unashamedly celebrating her heritage, Rihanna is one hell of a spokeswoman for self acceptance, and being yourself. Take a look at the full speech below.
Image: Billboard