Pop singer Rihanna has been appointed an extraordinary
ambassador for her home country, Barbados, the government said
Thursday.
The new ambassador, by her full name Robyn Rihanna Fenty, will
promote education, tourism and investment on the Lesser Antilles
island, according to the statement.
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley described the 30-year-old as an
outstanding Barbadian who has contributed to raising the island's
international profile.
"Rihanna has a deep love for this country and this is reflected in
her philanthropy, especially in the areas of health and education.
She also shows her patriotism in the way she gives back to this
country and continues to treasure the island as her home," Mottley
said.
"She has also demonstrated, beyond her success as a pop icon,
significant creative acumen and shrewdness in business. It is
therefore fitting that we engage and empower her to play a more
definitive role as we work to transform Barbados," the premier added.
Rihanna said she was "proud to take on such a prestigious title in my
home country."
"Every Barbadian is going to have to play their role in this current
effort, and I'm ready and excited to take on the responsibility," she
added.
The singer was already appointed one of Barbados' cultural
ambassadors in 2008.