Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has revealed that her 2024 meeting with billionaire singer Rihanna in Barbados significantly boosted her confidence and improved her self-image.
Speaking in a recent interview with W Magazine, the 23-year-old said she was going through a period of low self-esteem at the time of the encounter, but Rihanna’s warm personality helped her regain confidence in herself.
Ayra Starr recalled that a standout moment from their meeting was sitting with Rihanna while watching her music videos, noting that the global superstar pointed out her favourite parts, which made the experience feel surreal and deeply meaningful.
She added that the encounter felt life-changing, describing it as one of the most amazing moments of her life and saying she believed “God had sent” Rihanna to her during a difficult phase.
The singer, who has often named Rihanna as her biggest inspiration, also noted that the Barbadian star expressed openness to collaborating with her and fellow Nigerian artist Tems during their 2024 meeting.
