Billboard’s Woman of the Year Selena Gomez Breaks Down in Tears, Plus: What Makes Her Happy Right Now

Last night, Selena Gomez was honored as Billboard's Woman of the Year, an accolade that comes after a year in which she received a life-changing kidney transplant.

During her acceptance speech, Gomez showed her appreciation for BFF Francia Raísa, her donor. While tearing up, she said, “To be honest, I think Francia should be getting this award. She saved my life… I feel incredibly lucky." Watch!

“Extra's” Renee Bargh spoke to Gomez, who opened up about her new life, just before her emotional speech onstage. Of the honor Selena said, “The idea of Woman of the Year made me a little uncomfortable. What I think about when I think of Woman of the Year is how impactful the women have been in our industry lately; it's honestly crucial and remarkable and makes me feel more comfortable to be part of this industry.”

The 25-year-old singer proudly put the scar from her kidney transplant on display on social media after announcing she had undergone surgery. Does she feel like it is a battle scar? Selena, who is combating lupus, said, “This isn't going to be my last (battle)… Going through that makes me look at life a little bit differently, and I am grateful for that.”

Earlier in the day, her Billboard cover was released. In the issue, she opened up about her split from The Weeknd and reconnecting with Justin Bieber. As for to whom and what she attributes her happiness right now, Selena revealed, “I would honestly say, not to sound cheesy, probably my faith, but at the same time I just, I really work hard on myself. I have the best people around me and I am surrounded by good people, but at the end of the day, you're the one that's gotta pick yourself up sometimes and I really feel like I've done a lot of work to do that.”

Are you loving her new blonde 'do as much as we are? When asked if blondes have more fun, Selena replied, “So far, it's been great I am not complaining!”

Renee also spoke with Francia before she presented Selena with the Billboard honor. She commented, “We've been friends for almost ten years now, we've gone through highs and lows together… I've been joking about this all week, but ya know, we didn't get to go to prom… I feel like I'm crowning this year's prom queen.” Watch!