On Thursday night, the Prince of Wales went out to an awards ceremony honoring his late mother, Princess Diana of Wales. William, 41, attended The Diana Legacy Awards at the Science Museum in London in person, putting the controversy surrounding his wife Princess Catherine’s altered Mother’s Day photo behind him.
He praised his late mother and the 20 recipients of the Legacy Awards this year in a brief speech. Later tonight, following the event, his younger brother Prince Harry is anticipated to make a video call to the winners to congratulate them from the US.
Photo: © WPA Pool
William began his speech by saying, “I’m incredibly honored to be here today to honor the transformative accomplishments of twenty outstanding young people from all over the world. You will soon hear their stories, all of which bear witness to their character, zeal, and resolve to significantly and permanently improve the lives of others.
“These young people’s paths haven’t always been straightforward. Many people have triumphed over prejudice and misfortune, but they are motivated by courage, compassion, and dedication—qualities that my mother also possessed.
“Their experiences serve as a reminder of the value of institutions such as The Diana Award. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this nonprofit inspires and empowers youth to take charge of their lives and bring about the changes they desire to see in their neighborhoods and the wider world.
“The Diana Award, along with many of their partners present today, will provide these young people with the tools they need to make an even greater impact over the course of the next two years. I can’t wait to see what they can accomplish as a group. The Diana Award, a nonprofit organization founded to honor my mother’s conviction that youth can make a positive impact on the world, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this evening, making this year’s Legacy Award especially meaningful.
Photo: © WPA Pool
“I’m sure it would have pleased her to see a nonprofit organization bearing her name inspiring and uplifting young people everywhere. She taught me that everyone can help others and that those in need should be given a helping hand in life.
“That legacy is something that the 50,000 young people who have received Diana Awards over the past 25 years, as well as Catherine and I, have tried to emphasize through our work. Witnessing this in action with the incredible youth who are being honored with the Legacy Award tonight fills me with immense pride. I appreciate it; have a nice evening.
William was present to give the awards to the deserving winners this year, who were acknowledged for their efforts to change the world for the better. The United Kingdom is home to three of the twenty recipients, with other young winners coming from Nigeria, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Jamaica, Australia, and other nations.
William got to know important employees and backers of the Diana Award, a nonprofit organization founded in his mother’s honor with the goal of encouraging young people to emulate Diana’s altruistic and humanitarian deeds. The organization is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
Photo: © Getty Images
“These young people couldn’t be a more fitting tribute and legacy to Diana, the late Princess of Wales, and her belief that young people have the power to change the world,” stated Dr. Tessy Ojo CBE, Chief Executive of The Diana Award, prior to the event.
“Often in the face of extreme adversity, they are bringing about change via their bravery, selflessness, and unwavering determination. Their empathy, tenacity, and initiative to effect positive change both now and in the future are truly remarkable.”
Following the ceremony, William had the opportunity to have a formal meeting with the winners before departing to return home to Windsor, where his wife Princess Catherine is recuperating from surgery.
After the event, his brother Harry is anticipated to join a video conference with the winners to congratulate them on their accomplishments in humanitarian and social action work.
Photo: © WPA Pool
Another indication that the royal brothers are growing apart is his virtual presence, which is distinct from William’s physical attendance. Their relationship has been strained recently, especially since Harry and his wife Meghan Markle left the royal life and relocated to the US.
After learning of his cancer diagnosis last month, Harry traveled to the UK to meet with King Charles for 45 minutes at Clarence House. However, the two did not get together.
In 2017, William and Harry hosted the first-ever Diana Legacy Awards at St. James’ Palace, back when things were better.
