Barbados Declares Rihanna a National Hero

Rihanna has received a rare honor in Bridgetown, her hometown.

During the presidential inauguration event in Heroes Square on Monday night, Barbados proclaimed the ‘Diamonds’ singer a National Hero, symbolizing the country’s transition to a Commonwealth republic.

To loud applause, Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced the 33-year-hero old’s status.

Mottley summoned Rihanna out in front of the audience to congratulate her.

“On behalf of a grateful nation and an even prouder people, we therefore present to you, to the designee, a National Hero of Barbados, ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty,” Mottley added, referring to the singer by her full name.

“May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honor to your nation by your works, by your actions,” she said, referring to Rihanna’s chart-topping track from 2012.

Prince Charles, who was also present at the event, congratulated the pop star personally.

According to Forbes magazine, the Barbadian entrepreneur became a billionaire early this year.

The magazine reported earlier this year that Rihanna is the wealthiest female artist and the second-richest woman in entertainment, after Oprah Winfrey.

The 33-year-old, who hasn’t released a new album in five years, is worth an estimated $1.7 billion thanks to her cosmetics line Fenty Beauty.

According to Forbes, Fenty Beauty is worth $2.8 billion.

Through her Savage x Fenty lingerie brand, the singer has also committed time to grow her business empire.