Rita Marley, wife of reggae legend Bob Marley, will be celebrated by the United Nations Women and the African Union Diaspora Africa Forum in New York and will be recognized with the Living Legends and African women of Excellence Award for 2015. Marley is one of several individuals receiving recognition as outstanding women of African descent. Marley says she is honored to be included in the group of distinguished artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and social activists chosen for the award. Born in Cuba, Marley is known for her philanthropic and entrepreneurial achievements, including a home for teen-aged mothers in Kingston, a program to provide books and backpacks with back-to-school supplies to disadvantaged youth, a singing career and founder of her own music recording and publishing companies.