Kat Von D has been named as an honoree for the 2018 Latino Spirit Awards for achievement in Business and Entertainment.

The Latino Spirit Awards, established by the California Latino Legislative Caucus, recognizes influential role models – many who have overcome tremendous obstacles – in a variety of categories for their positive contributions to the community.

The 17th Annual Latino Spirit Awards were announced in May at the California State Capitol in Sacramento. 10 honorees were named, including TV personality Liz Hernandez, U.S. Army veteran Hector Barajas-Varela, journalist Lupita Lomeli and humanitarian Cheech Marin among others. All of the honorees serve as a reminder of the talent within the diverse Latino community and are a source of inspiration to all Californians.

More About The Tattoo-Artist-Turned-Beauty Maven

Kat Von D, whose name is Katherine Von Drachenberg, is a talented artist, author, musician, activist and successful business woman. She was born to Argentinian and Mexican parents in Montemorelos, Mexico—a heritage she celebrates in her artwork and business.

Von D began tattooing at the age of 14 in Los Angeles and in 2007 opened up her own shop, High Voltage Tattoo in West Hollywood.  She eventually starred in her own television show, LA Ink, which was based on her tattoo shop. 

In 2008, Kat Von D defied expectations, taking the world by storm by launching a high-performance, vegan and cruelty free makeup collection: Kat Von D Beauty, which is sold in 35 countries exclusively at Sephora and Debenhams.

Von D's passion for animals, humanity and the environment has inspired her activism. She has effectively leveraged her business to raise funds for a variety of charitable organizations including Project Chimps Annual Sanctuary, the Farm Sanctuary and the California Wildlife Center. Kat Von D is the author of three New York Times best-selling books, and will launch a vegan shoe line later this year.