The Latin American Fashion Awards has named its icon of the year ahead of its biennial ceremony, which recognizes and champions leading and emerging Latinx talent in the fashion industry.
J Balvin will received the ceremony’s prestigious Latin Fashion Icon of the Year award at the event, taking place on November 4.
“I’m excited to be celebrating the next generation of Latin American designers and be surrounded by creative minds looking to push the boundaries,” Balvin said in a statement following news of his nomination. “I’m honored to be part of this event that cherishes hard work and creativity of the highest caliber.”
Ceremony co-founders Constanza Etro and Silvia Argüello said in a statement that “it’s a true honor to share the stage with J Balvin. His inspiring life story and gifted power to make the whole world dance together is an unparalleled combination that will heat the audience and empower the future generations of Latin American talent.”
Actress Leslie Grace will host the awards show, which will take place at the Altos de Chavón Amphitheatre in the Dominican Republic.
Other honorees selected by the awards’ jury include designers Raul Lopez, Willy Chavarria, Johanna Ortiz, Stella Jean, and Elena Velez; accessories designer Daniela Villegas; fashion influencers Camila Coutinho and Marina Testino; fashion photographers Mar+Vin and Camila Falquez; and model Hiandra Martinez.
The Latin Fashion Awards’ jury is full of fashion industry heavyweights, including ELLE’s own editor-in-chief Nina Garcia. Designer Haider Ackermann presides over it.
Jury members also include CFDA CEO Steven Kolb, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana president Carlo Capasa, head of content of Vogue Mexico and Latin America Karla Martinez de Salas, journalist Anna Dello Russo, stylist and i-D global fashion editor Carlos Nazario, supermodel Indya Moore, and more.
Learn more about the award ceremony here.