Perry wore her hair in a girlish half up and half down braided fashion and her make-up look was heavy, with the star opting for accentuated eyebrows and layers of mascara to make her green eyes stand out.
She was chosen for the award as she encourages young people to believe in themselves and stand up for individuality.
During the ceremony Abbe Land, executive director and CEO of the charity, explained more about why they picked the Fireworks singer to receive the accolade in 2012.
"We're honouring her because, really, she has done so much to empower youth," Land said.
"A couple years ago when, unfortunately, a lot of young suicides made the news and there was a very visible presence of suicide, Katy stepped up and was out there in the community, speaking against it.
"Her support of marriage equality - and equality for everyone, really - is one of the many reasons we're supporting her as our hero this year.
"Her song Firework is all about empowering youth to just be who they are, and that's what we try to do is make sure that when a young person reaches out to us. We are there to say 'the way you are is perfect. Just be the way you are'."
Joining Perry in the best dressed stakes was Naya Rivera, who made a stunning entrance along with Rashida Jones and Anna Kendrick.
- COVER MEDIA
