Jay-Z has said Rihanna can represent victims of domestic abuse following her experience with former boyfriend Chris Brown.

Brown attacked Rihanna during an altercation in Los Angeles in February.

Last month, an LA Judge sentenced Brown to five years' probation and ordered him to do 180 days community labour and attend domestic violence counselling classes.

During an interview on The Oprah Winfrey show, Jay-Z, who was responsible for discovering Rihanna, said the star could become a “hero” for fellow victims.

"It's one of those situations where she's young, they're both young,” he said.

"There's a contention of young people who are going through the same things, and no-one hears their voice.

“She can be their hero. Or she can choose not to grow from this."

Brown began his community service in Virginia, Louisiana earlier this month.

Rihanna and Chris Brown