The Caribbean country of Barbados officially became a Republic on November 29th and in the process named Rihanna a national hero.
Rihanna was born in Barbados in 1988. Little did she know that in 2021, she would've received the utmost honor in the place that saw her grow.
On a video shared by The Guardian, Rihanna can be seen walking on stage as Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley officially honors her during the ceremony that marks the beginning of the Republic.
"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, may you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honor to your nation," Mottley said.
Rihanna has subsequently addressed the nation with a meaningful speech, talking about her love for her country.
She began her speech saying that she will always remember the day she received such recognition.
"I am so proud to be Bajan... I am going to be a Bajan until I die. This is the only place I ever called home," Rihanna said.
Rihanna may have received many awards, but felt a great amount of gratitude for this title. Barbados has officially become a Republic and, especially now, it can "shine like a diamond."
