The Billboard Latin Women in Music 2026 event, broadcast on Thursday, April 23, on Telemundo, was a night filled with powerful performances, emotional speeches, and well-deserved recognitions for trailblazing artists. Hosted by Chiquis, the fourth edition of the annual ceremony celebrated a diverse group of women who have significantly impacted music and society, including Rosalía as Woman of the Year, Lola Indigo for Artistic Evolution, Ivy Queen as Pioneer, Julieta Venegas for Artistic Excellence, Becky G for Global Impact, Young Miko as Unstoppable Artist, and Joy for Spirit of Change, alongside Gloria Trevi, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

One of the evening's most emotional moments came when Gloria Trevi, shimmering like a disco queen in a dazzling, futuristic outfit inspired by her album cover as a daring space cadet, took the stage. She performed “No Estás Sola” from her 2025 album El Vuelo, captivating the audience with her energy and passion, turning the performance into a celebration of unity and empowerment. In her acceptance speech for the Lifetime Achievement Award, Trevi shared profound reflections on the contemporary world, addressing misinformation, division, and the alarming trend of women attacking other women. She urged women to recognize their power and responsibility to foster love and empathy, stating, “Women are the hand that rocks the cradle,” and emphasizing that positive change begins within each individual: “If you are well, the world will be better. Say: ‘you are not alone.’ Remember, a smile can change and even save a life.”

Becky G also deeply moved the audience, paying homage to Selena Quintanilla with a heartfelt performance of “Dreaming of You.” Dressed elegantly with a distinctive scarf, the 29-year-old artist chose to honor Selena's legacy of embracing multiple cultures and languages, rather than performing her newer tracks. Receiving the Global Impact Award from her friend Natti Natasha, Becky G reflected on her role as a leader and role model. She spoke about her commitment to community engagement, cultural representation, and creating opportunities for the next generation while respecting those who came before. Beyond Selena, she cited Dolores Huerta, an activist who fought against injustices for women and immigrants, as a profound inspiration. Becky G, who has an impressive chart history including eight Billboard Hot 100 hits and six Hot Latin Songs top 10 entries, acknowledged her own imperfections while highlighting her strength, determination, and her privilege as a sister, daughter, and granddaughter of immigrants, vowing to use her platform to help others.

Julieta Venegas brought her signature pop ballads and powerful political messages to the stage. Beginning at her piano, she performed “La Línea,” a deeply emotional song originally with Yahritza y Su Esencia, which explores the nostalgia and separation associated with borders. Natalia Lafourcade presented Venegas with the Artistic Excellence award, sharing a personal testament to Venegas's inspirational music during her youth. In her acceptance speech, Venegas expressed gratitude to her audience and team, reflecting on her journey to reconcile societal expectations with her artistic aspirations. She dedicated her award to those separated from loved ones due to detention, deportation, or the pursuit of dreams, wishing them resilience and hope. Venegas's chart success includes her album Limón y Sal reaching the Top 10 on Top Latin Albums and hits like “Me Voy” and “Andar Conmigo” on Hot Latin Songs and Latin Airplay.

Joy, the lead vocalist of Jesse & Joy, was honored with the Spirit of Change award, presented by actress Justina Machado. She delivered an emotional speech emphasizing music's role in connecting people and building bridges. Joy highlighted that true change stems from small actions, how we interact, and how we choose to love freely. She stressed that real change is a collective effort, born from community, empathy, and mutual support, extending her message to advocating for animals, minorities, and women. Beyond her success with Jesse & Joy, Joy has been a vocal advocate for immigrant rights, LGBTQ+ equality, female empowerment, fighting gender violence, and animal welfare. Her recent Broadway debut as a co-writer for the musical Real Women Have Curves earned her a Tony Award nomination. Before accepting her award, Joy performed a heartfelt medley of “Un Besito Más,” “Flying Away” (from Real Women Have Curves), and “Love (En Nuestro Idioma),” embodying her unwavering commitment to inclusion and justice.