Barbados has a new hero, and it's Rihanna.
On Monday, November 29, the Caribbean country officially cut its political and ceremonial ties with the UK, in order to become a republic. As such, Queen Elizabeth II was removed as the island nation's head of state.
During the Pride of Nationhood ceremony, which took place in Bridgetown, Barbados, Prime Minister Mia Mottley took the time to celebrate one of the country's own, Rihanna, by declaring her as a National Hero.
"On behalf of a grateful nation, but an even prouder people, we therefore present to you the designee for national hero for Barbados, ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty," Mottley said to the crowd.
"May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honor to your nation by your works, by your actions," she added in a clear reference to the billionaire entrepreneur's hit 2012 single, Diamonds.
The Savage x Fenty founder, whose real name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, was born in Saint Michael, and grew up in Bridgetown, before moving to the US to embark on her musical career.
Back in 2009, former Barbados prime minister, David Thompson, announced that February 22 was "Rihanna Day". Although it is not an official bank holiday, it is widely celebrated by people across the country each year.
In a message to Caribbean people, the Queen sent her "good wishes for your happiness, peace, and prosperity in the future". She also stressed the importance of the "continuation of the friendship" between the two nations.
Her son, Prince Charles, also spoke about relations going forward, and the impact of the UK's involvement in the slave trade.
"From the darkest days of our past, and the appalling atrocity of slavery, which forever stains our histories, the people of this island forged their path with extraordinary fortitude," he said in front of the crowd in National Heroes Square in Bridgetown.
"Emancipation, self-government, and independence were your way-points. Freedom, justice, and self-determination have been your guides," he added.
Barbados was formerly part of the British Empire, and declared independence in 1966. Queen Elizabeth II continued in her role as head of state, however, and despite gaining republic status, Barbados will remain in the Commonwealth organization of nations.