Maluma’s spirit is being celebrated…
The 26-year-old Colombian superstar, whose real name is Juan Luis Londoño Arias, will be honored with the Billboard Spirit of Hope Award at this year’s Billboard Latin Music Awards, which will take place October 21.
Announced by Telemundo and Billboard, Maluma – who recently topped the debut Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart – will be recognized for his commitment and altruistic efforts surrounding his foundation, El Arte de los Sueños, which he founded in 2016. The non-profit organization supports nearly 170 young individuals at risk of accomplishing their dreams.
Through song, dance, percussion and creative art (all with an urban emphasis), as well as psychosocial care, the organization seeks to generate the tools needed to seek a different lifestyle, so that these young dreamers can face the world and its challenges.
The Billboard Spirit of Hope Award was created in honor of Selena Quintanilla, and throughout the past 20 years has been given to an artist in recognition of their extraordinary philanthropic and humanitarian contributions beyond their musical work.
Previous recipients include Maná, Los Tigres del Norte, Ricky Martin, Shakira, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, Carlos Vives and Luis Fonsi, among others.
Maluma, a 2020 Billboard Latin Music Awards finalist, will also perform during the awards ceremony taking place live from the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Florida.
The Billboard Latin Music Awards will kick-off at 7:00 pm ET with a red carpet pre-show followed by the three-hour awards show featuring live performances by today’s top Latin artists to honor the most popular albums, songs and performers in Latin music.