In 1996, Gloria Estefan became the first artist to receive the Billboard Spirit of Hope Award at the third annual Billboard Latin Music Awards.
The Cuban-American singer, who that year nabbed three awards — including Latin dance single of the year for “Abriendo Puertas” — was also recognized for her philanthropic and humanitarian contributions beyond her musical work.
Since its inception 27 years ago in honor of the late Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla, the Billboard Spirit of Hope Award has been awarded to 22 artists, including two-time honorees Estefan (1996, 2011) and Maná (2000, 2013). No award was presented in 2012, 2016, 2018, 2019 and 2021.
Last year, the special award was presented to Colombian superstar Karol G. The “Provenza” singer’s impact extends beyond music. In 2022, Karol G founded the Con Cora Foundation, which aims to support the economic, social, psychological and artistic development of underprivileged women.
J Balvin is set to be honored his year for his philanthropic efforts through his Vibra En Alta Foundation, which aims to elevate young individuals by supporting their educational journeys. “I’m so grateful, and so honored, to be recognized with such a special award,” he said in a statement. “It’s important for me, as the artist I am today and that little kid with dreams I once was before – and still is to this day – to be able to support and guide the next generation into realities of their own. I am proud to be able to help the youth and new wave discover their passions through the Vibra en Alta Foundation and help turn those very dreams into realities.”
The 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards list of finalists is led by Karol G, who has 17 nods in categories including artist of the year, tour of the year, Global 200 Latin artist of the year, and top Latin album of the year for Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season). See the complete list of finalists here.
As has been the case for more than 20 years, the Billboard Latin Music Awards coincide with Billboard’s annual Latin Music Week, the single largest and most important gathering of the Latin music industry, taking place Oct. 14-18. Purchase tickets to the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week here.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and the upcoming Billboard Latin Music Awards, taking place Sunday, Oct. 20, see all of the Spirit of Hope Award winners in the history of the awards show:
