SINGING SENSATION RIHANNA, who can be an inspiration to poor Barbadian youths, should receive a national award for copping three top Billboard Music Awards last Monday.

That's the view of Government's adviser on poverty, former minister Hamilton Lashley.

"Rihanna achieved the distinction of being the first Barbadian to take three top Billboard Music Awards, and for this I think she should be nationally honoured – big-time," Lashley told the SATURDAY SUN yesterday. "When she returns to Barbados, she should also be given red carpet treatment."

Lashley said Rihanna and her fairytale success held a message for poor young Barbadians: "Her success tells every poor person across Barbados who is ambitious, who is creative, and who is talented enough, that he or she too can make it and that the sky is the limit once they apply themselves.

"With a trust in God and a little help, Barbados can produce a lot more sensational performers like Rihanna. In fact, we may have a lot of Rihannas who are just waiting for a chance.

"Her phenomenal success should serve as an inspiration for the talented."

Lashley said the good thing about the 18-year-old entertainer was that she kept close to her Barbadian roots.

"This is a real Bajan person," he observed. "Despite everything she has achieved, she reminds the world who she is and where she came from.

"She has put Barbados on the world map. The Government and all Barbadians should be proud of her and honour her for her outstanding achievements, which have also been a major help to our tourism."

Rihanna topped a sensational year this week, being named Female Hot 100 Artist, Pop 100 Artist and Female Artist of the Year.

(TY)