In 1996, Gloria Estefan became the first-ever artist to receive the Billboard Spirit of Hope Award at the 3rd 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 given out in 2012, 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2021.
This year, the special award will be 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. “I am grateful for this special recognition,” Karol, a 13-time finalist at the 2023 Billboard Latin Music Awards, said in a statement. “My commitment with Con Cora Foundation is a fundamental part of my life and I am proud to be able to help the women who need it most.”
The 2023 Billboard Latin Music Awards list of finalists is led by Peso Pluma, who has 21 nods across 15 categories, including artist of the year, songwriter of the year, Global 200 Latin artist of the year, and Top Latin Album of the year. 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. 2-6. Purchase tickets to the 2023 Billboard Latin Music Week here.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and the upcoming Billboard Latin Music Awards, taking place Thursday, Oct. 5, see all of the Spirt of Hope Award winners in the history of the awards show:
