Filipina fashion icon and actress Heart Evangelista continues to make waves internationally as she was named Global Fashion Influencer of the Year at the prestigious EMIGALA 2025 Fashion and Beauty Awards in Dubai.
The recognition was announced via EMIGALA’s official Instagram page on April 14. Evangelista joins an elite list of global style figures to be honored at this year’s ceremony, which is set to take place on April 22–23 in Dubai.
Other honorees include Pritika Swarup as Global Beauty Influencer of the Year and Selma Benomar as Caftan Designer of the Year. Evangelista follows fellow Filipina Pia Wurtzbach, who received the same award in 2024.
Despite her glamorous public persona, Evangelista previously opened up about the pressure of maintaining the title “Global Fashion Icon.” In a 2024 interview, she revealed that participating in Fashion Weeks initially stemmed from career demands and audience metrics. “At the end of the day, it’s still a job,” she said, emphasizing the balance between self-expression and professional expectations.
She added, “The best part about fashion is how it allows you to be yourself. Ratings and rankings aside, it’s really about celebrating who you are.”