Karol G honored for her philanthropy at Billboard Latin Music Awards with Spirit of Hope Award

Karol G has healed her "cora" and is now using her heart's voice to help those in need.

The Colombian singer was honored for her philanthropic work at the 2023 Billboard Latin Music Awards on Thursday, where she accepted the Spirit of Hope Award for her women's advocacy work with the Con Cora Foundation.

"This will probably be one of the most special awards I receive in my career," Karol said in Spanish. "Formed by women, we work for women. Con Cora focuses on women in vulnerable states, women who are affected by violence (and) women in need of opportunities."

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Karol also thanked her fans, whose support of her music plays a role in the foundation's "incredible projects." "What we make in tickets and album sales is directed to (Con Cora), so you're part of this family too."

The award, created in honor of Latin pop icon Selena Quintanilla, recognizes artists who have demonstrated "exceptional commitment to civic, community and humanitarian causes beyond their artistic success," according to a press release from Billboard.

The honor is a full-circle moment for the "Mañana Será Bonito" singer, who cites Quintanilla as a musical influence. Karol's cumbia pop hit "Mi Ex Tenía Razón," taken from her mixtape "Mañana Será Bonito (Bichota Season)," pays homage to Quintanilla's signature cumbia sound.

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During the ceremony, Karol sported a white Dolce & Gabbana dress and elegant updo that was reminiscent of Quintanilla's 1994 Grammy Awards look.

Karol founded the Con Cora Foundation in 2022. The foundation aims to support the economic, social, psychological and artistic development of underprivileged women. Con Cora has partnered with organizations such as She Is Foundation and Fundación Acción Interna (Internal Action Foundation) to further its mission of female empowerment with initiatives that offer scholarships to female inmates in Bogotá, Colombia, and promote STEM education among young women.

"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," Karol said in a press release ahead of the ceremony.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Karol G accepts Spirit of Hope award at Billboard Latin Music Awards