Los Angeles, Feb 5 (TIWN) Singer Rihanna will be honoured with the President's Award, which recognises special achievement and distinguished public service, at the 51st National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) Image Awards.

According to an official press release, the award is presented "in recognition of a special achievement and distinguished public service." Previous recipients include Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill, Soledad O'Brien, and Muhammad Ali.  The decision to honor Rihanna was based on her culturally influential reinvention, not just as a pop star, but also a fashion designer and beauty mogul who prioritizes diversity and authenticity throughout all her creative realms.  "Rihanna has not only enjoyed a groundbreaking career as an artist and musician but has also distinguished herself as a stellar public servant," said Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP. "From her business achievements through Fenty to her tremendous record as an activist and philanthropist, Rihanna epitomizes the type of character, grace, and devotion to justice that we seek to highlight in our President’s Award."