Parsons School of Design honours Rihanna

The Trinidad and Tobago born singer was on recently honoured for her career and philanthropic efforts, for inspiring millions through her powerful mus

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The Trinidad and Tobago born singer was on recently honoured for her career and philanthropic efforts, for inspiring millions through her powerful music and distinct style. According to Parsons School of Design executive dean Joel Towers, “She has championed our recent alumni on a number of occasions by wearing their designs. She is also creating important philanthropic programs, which support communities by fostering effective education, health, and emergency response programs around the world through her Clara Lionel Foundation.”

Her ensemble for the honour

The 29 year old who was thrilled to be honoured said, “It’s such a thrill to know that a design school as prestigious as Parsons School of Design would present me with this honour. I consistently find creative and exciting designs coming from Parsons alumni, so I feel a deep connection to the school. But I am especially grateful that Parsons would recognise me for the work I’ve done in regards to philanthropy.”

Rihanna has been active in raising awareness and funds for charity throughout her career, including hosting her Diamond Ball gala, which has been benefiting her Clara Lionel Foundation since 2014. The singer founded the organisation, which provides support to underprivileged communities, in 2012 and is named after her grandparents Clara and Lionel Braithwaite.

Recall that earlier this year, she received the Humanitarian of the Year Award at Harvard University and praised the benefits of charity.         
“You don’t have to be rich to be a humanitarian,” she said during her speech. “You don’t have to be rich to help somebody. You don’t gotta be famous. You don’t even have to be college-educated.”