Barbados is officially a republic since Monday and Rihanna is its “national heroine”. The Caribbean island had been independent since 1966, but still linked to the British crown for more than four centuries. This Monday, Sandra Mason, the first President of the Republic of Barbados elected by indirect universal suffrage in October, was sworn in. The ceremony took place in the presence of Prince Charles, who witnessed the replacement of the flag of the crown by that of the new republic.
The interpreter of Umbrella was also in the audience and was honored. “On behalf of a grateful nation, but even more of a proud people, we designate you as the National Heroine of Barbados. Ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty, may you continue to shine like a diamond, ”said Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, referring to the artist’s hit, Diamonds.
Not just a symbol
Since his first hit, Pon de Replay in 2009, Rihanna built a global empire. Besides music, her foray into cosmetics, with her brand Fenty Beauty, was a revolution, just like in lingerie, which was then dominated by the inaccessible bodies of the Victoria’s Secret Angels. The star took the opposite view, in these two industries, by offering inclusive products and ambassadors. On the fashion side, its association with LVMH was historic in more than one way. Although she has since closed her clothing line, Rihanna has become the first woman of color to have her own label under the aegis of big boss Bernard Arnault. The cinema has also extended its arms to him since his role in Ocean’s 8. But it is with artists with more independent projects, like that of Donald Glover, Guava Island, that she seems to flourish best.
Especially, since her debut, the singer, who today weighs $ 1.7 billion according to Forbes, regularly promotes his country. If Elizabeth II is no longer the head of state, Barbados has chosen its own communications queen. While tourism represented 13% of GDP, the Covid-19 pandemic had a catastrophic impact. This new line on Rihanna’s CV is therefore far from being purely honorary. The economic benefits thanks to the singer’s engagement could well provide the country with a good boost for this transition to a republican regime.
