Tina Knowles took center stage at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event, located at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, to accept the prestigious inaugural Mother of the Year award on Saturday, March 29. As her eldest daughter gears up for what promises to be a groundbreaking tour, this accolade highlights Knowles’ significant impact as a mother and matriarch in the music industry. Her presence at this event underscores her multifaceted role not only as a parent but also as a supportive figure in the careers of her talented daughters, showcasing the importance of maternal figures in shaping successful artists.
During her heartfelt acceptance speech, Tina Knowles expressed deep gratitude towards her fellow award recipients, including Doechii, recognized as Woman of the Year, who shared her excitement about Cowboy Carter on the red carpet prior to the ceremony. Knowles took this opportunity to reflect on her transformative journey as a mother, asserting that “there is no formal training class to prepare you for the most important job you’ll ever have in your life.” This statement emphasizes her commitment to daily growth and self-improvement as a parent, reinforcing the idea that motherhood is a continuous learning experience enriched by love, dedication, and resilience.
In a touching moment, she expressed gratitude to her daughters, including Solange, Beyoncé, Kelly [Rowland], [niece] Angie [Beyincé], and Michelle [Williams], LaTavia [Roberson] and LeToya [Luckett], acknowledging them as her “bonus” children. “I got to mother you all in some way, and you believed in me early on to dress you and give love [and] creative input,” she stated, underscoring the collaborative bond she shares with her family. Tina further thanked Mathew Knowles for his unwavering support, reflecting on the blessings of motherhood. She dedicated her award to her remarkable mother, Agnes, and all mothers who tirelessly uplift their children in their pursuits, celebrating the universal spirit of maternal love and encouragement.
The Mother of the Year award, presented by Billboard editor-in-chief Hannah Karp during the final weekend of Women’s History Month, recognizes Tina Knowles as the quintessential music matriarch of the 21st century. As the mother of iconic music figures like Grammy-winning Beyoncé and Solange, Knowles has played an instrumental role behind the scenes, shaping the visual identity of their careers. Notably, during the formative years of Destiny’s Child, she was the creative force behind their distinctive costumes, which reflected their Houston roots. Additionally, her design work extended to multiple films featuring Beyoncé, such as Dreamgirls, Obsessed, Cadillac Records, and Austin Powers in Goldmember, showcasing her versatility and influence in both fashion and film.
In a remarkable partnership with her daughter, Beyoncé, Tina Knowles co-founded House of Deréon in 2004, a clothing brand named in honor of her mother, Agnes Deréon. Two decades later, this dynamic duo reunited to launch Cécred, an award-winning haircare line that symbolizes a return to Knowles’ roots in the beauty industry, specifically hair salons. Moreover, as a proud grandmother, Tina celebrates the achievements of her grandchildren, including Grammy winner Blue Ivy, who recently captivated audiences in Disney’s blockbuster Mufasa; rising fashion model Julez Smith; and her twin grandchildren, Rumi and Sir Carter, reflecting the continued legacy of talent and creativity within the Knowles family.
Tina Knowles’ complete acceptance speech for the Mother of the Year award will be available for viewing here at 7 p.m. ET on Monday night, March 31, allowing fans and supporters to witness her inspiring words and heartfelt reflections on motherhood and family.
