Rihanna's Annual Diamond Ball 2019

Every year, music artist Rihanna hosts the Diamond Ball. The event celebrated its fifth year at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City on Thursday, September 12th. Rihanna uses the ball to help profit the Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF). This foundation was founded in honor of her grandparents Clara and Lionel Braithwaite. Over its 5 years, roughly $13 million was committed in grants. In fact, $6 million was used last year to fund the education and emergency response programs.

We love to see the philanthropic work of celebrities and the guest list shows just that. On Thursday, guest included Cardi B, Offset, Karlie Kloss, Normani, A$AP Rocky and even the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley. That night Cardi was deemed as the princess of the ball to fans because of her gown. She wore a light-pink tiered dress designed by George Hobeika. Additionally, Cardi showed her support by outbidding herself with $111,000 for Rihanna’s book. Afterwards, Rihanna spoke on her love for the guests with Entertainment Tonight.

“I could be out here and throw a ball by myself and I’d feel good,” she began. “[B]ut the thing that’s making me feel this high of cloud nine is seeing people who believe in my cause and think it’s something worth donating to, something worth investing in.”

In return, guests had good things to say about Rihanna as well.

“It’s so special what she’s been able to do. Barbados is a place where we believe in helping those who cannot help themselves… And Rihanna has been able to exhibit that so beautifully in all that she’s done,” spoke Prime Minister Mottley.

The event was hosted by comedian Seth Meyers. Furthermore, performances by Megan Thee Stallion, DJ Khaled, Pharrell Williams – who was joined by Rihanna herself for their singer “Lemon” – where held throughout the entire night.