Michael Kovac/Getty Images for BillboardSelena Gomez accepted her Woman of the Year award at the Billboard Women in Music event Thursday night, tearfully thanking her best friend and kidney donor, Francia Raisa.
“To be honest, I think Francia should be getting this award,” Selena said. “Because she saved my life.”
In her emotional speech, Selena went on to say how she deeply respects the platform she’s been given, and thanked all the older women who inspire the younger generation to use their voices.
“I don’t know how I’ll ever repay it but maybe I’ll make an epic album next year for all of you guys,” she said.
Earlier in the evening, Selena was asked on the red carpet how Justin Bieber has influenced the person she is today. Selena said she doesn’t think “anybody truly, actually cares.”
Selena went on to say that she doesn’t really concern herself anymore with how people think she should live her life.
“My family is great. My health is great. I love deeply and I think that’s just who I am. I’m not really ashamed,” she said.
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