Asian representation was at an all-time high as Olivia Rodrigo, H.E.R., and Saweetie were all honored at the 2022 Billboard Women in Music Awards.

• Olivia Rodrigo was honored as ‘Woman of the Year,’ making her the first Asian American to receive the award. Olivia is of Filipina descent.

• H.E.R. received the ‘Impact’ award. She is of Filipina and African American descent.

• Saweetie received the ‘Game Changer’ award. She is of Filipina, Chinese, and African American descent.

In her moving speech, Olivia said, “To all the young girls out there who are writing songs every day in their journals, on their bedroom floors — I am constantly moved by your vulnerability and your creativity and bravery. And I promise everyone here today is working to make this world and this industry a better place for you.”

When H.E.R. accepted her award, she was quick to honor her mother throughout her speech saying, “Most importantly, shoutout to my Filipina mother who is in the house tonight. I want to thank my mom for teaching me to stay humble, be grounded, and be hardworking. She always believed in me from day one. The work that you do, and that you have done for me mom, you are impacting so many other people, you have no idea. In giving me a voice, I’m now using my voice to give others a voice, and to pave the way for other young women.”

Saweetie’s mother was on hand to present her award to her, telling the story of when Saweetie let her mother know that she wanted to be a rapper.

Here are some of the award ceremony’s highlights.