Colombian icon Shakira was announced as Billboard’s first ever Latin Woman of the Year back in 2023 ahead of the Latin Women in Music’s inaugural gala. The gala honors thriving Latina artists making a difference in the industry through different awards such as the Impact Award and Woman of the Year. During her acceptance speech, Shakira spoke to women’s empowerment and being bold: “A year where us women have touched subjects that couldn’t be touched, and said things that couldn’t be said. And though some may have complained, there’s no going back. Together, we’ve taken a step forward, and with each step we’re more free and more fulfilled.” #Shakira #ShakiraShakira #Colombiana #Billboard #LatinWomenInMusic #WomanOfTheYear #ThisWeekInHistory #LatinMusic