Rihanna hosts annual star-studded ‘Diamond Ball’

On Thursday night, Rihanna capped off an eventful New York Fashion Week by hosting the annual star-studded Diamond Ball.

On Thursday night, Rihanna capped off an eventful New York Fashion Week by hosting the annual star-studded Diamond Ball.

It was her third annual ball, during which she raised around $1 million (and counting) for the Clara Lionel Foundation, which was named for her grandparents, who she credited with teaching her how to be selfless.

“They’ve been my biggest role models in my life. They gave me a new perspective and taught me not to be selfish and to give back to people,“ Rihanna said at the ball.

“My grandmother instilled in me a kind spirit to always help people. She’s very giving. My grandfather taught me to have a strong work ethic and that everyone can make a difference by helping each other,” she continued.

“Creating this foundation is the most important thing I’ve done with my life. I love music, I love fashion, I love makeup, I love everything that I have done, but giving back is the most important and I want to help and make a difference in people’s lives.”

During the live auction portion of the evening, Rihanna even got a special taped message from former president Barack Obama praising her humanitarian work. He also talked up his upcoming Obama Foundation’s Fall Summit in Chicago on Nov. 1, where leaders will gather from around the world to share ideas.

See pictures of the event, which was hosted by recent Emmy award-winning comedian Dave Chappelle, and some of the stars it drew below.

We need a collab from these two! #Beyonce #Rihanna @GettyImages/ Kevin Mazur

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❤️ #diamondball

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Family ❤️❤️ #rihanna #fenty #navy #rnavy #badgalriri #riri #rih #DiamondBall

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