Selena Gomez, known for her candidness and emotional authenticity, received the prestigious Women of the Year Award at the 2017 Billboard Women in Music Awards. While the singer was deeply honored by the recognition, her heartfelt acceptance speech moved many to tears.
During the 2017 Billboard Women in Music Awards, Selena Gomez was bestowed with the Woman of the Year Award, a moment captured in a YouTube video shared by Billboard. Gomez’s close friend and kidney donor, Francia Raisa, along with Elle Fanning, presented her with the prestigious accolade.
In her acceptance speech, Selena Gomez began by expressing her gratitude to the inspiring women in her life and acknowledging the platform and space she has been granted. Her heartfelt emotions soon surfaced, leading to tears as she thanked her friend Francia Raisa for the life-saving gift of a kidney donation. Gomez emotionally stated, “To be honest, I believe Francia deserves this award because she saved my life. I’d like to thank my incredible team and family for sticking with me through some really difficult times.”
The Rare singer concluded her speech by emphasizing the value she places on her platform and the pride she feels as a woman in the entertainment industry. She expressed, “I couldn’t be more grateful for the position that I’ve been given in my career; I want everyone to know how much I value the platform I have… I’ve never felt more proud to be a woman in this business. I am eternally thankful to all of the elderly women who have assisted us.”
Selena Gomez joined an esteemed group of Women of the Year award recipients, including Taylor Swift, Pink, Fergie, and Beyoncé.
In addition to her recognition at the Billboard Women in Music Awards, Selena Gomez made a triumphant return to the music scene in 2023 with the release of her catchy single, “Single Soon.” The accompanying music video showcased her celebrating singlehood, dancing, and enjoying life with friends. The song became an instant hit, topping the charts and reaffirming Gomez’s status as a powerhouse in the music industry.