Nicki Minaj Introduces Her Mom To The World

Things got off to a great start at Sunday night's 2015 BET Awards when Nicki Minaj won the coveted Best Female Hip-Hop Artist category. La Minaj was up against a list of hip-hop favorites for the award, including Azealia Banks, Dej Loaf, Iggy Azalea, Tink, and Trina. She has five more nominations to go, making her possibly the most celebrated artist of the evening, with possible nods in Best Collaboration, Best Group, Coca-Cola's Viewer's Choice Award and Video of the Year. No matter what else happens, this was a special moment, because not only was it the first major win of the night, but Nicki Minaj brought her mom on stage to accept the award, creating an unforgettable moment. The Trinidadian superstar then gave her mother Carol Maraj a heartfelt thank you before the entire world.

The two clearly have a strong relationship. Maraj has spoken with Essence about the lessons she tried to instill in her superstar daughter, especially about the power of perseverance and focus. In an interview with the magazine last May, Maraj said, "I always tell my children to persevere. If they keep pressing toward what they want, it's going to happen. A superstar needs to be in touch with their gifts. There's also a certain measure of humility that they must keep as they go forward." It seems Minaj took that lesson to heart, as she showed total humility at the awards.

Before Minaj thanked anyone — her fiance Meek Mills, the Barbies, or her fellow nominees — she thanked her mom for everything she is today. "This is my mommy and it's the first time the world is getting to see her," the winner said. "And Mommy, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you've done for me. I love you so much." Watch the sweet moment below, and prepare to love and respect Minaj even more.