Both Prince Harry and his brother Prince William support the Diana Award, the only charity bearing their mother’s name. The award was instituted in 1999 in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, and her conviction that young people have the power to change the future.
The charity, which runs anti-bullying and mentorship programs, also rewards young people who do inspiring work.
Every year, thousands of young people are nominated by individuals and their communities to highlight their selfless actions.
In the gripping video, Harry said: “This is a special year, and one where I hope we take extra time, to not only remember how she lived, but to reflect on the life she is still going through. many leads, including the young changemakers with us today.
“My mother instilled in me and all of us the drive to speak and fight for a better world and now as a man and a parent my mother’s voice is even stronger in my life.
“You all kept her voice alive by showing the world how every little action counts, how kindness is still valued and how our world can be better if we do it that way.”
Prince Harry’s brother, Prince William, also praised the young winners.
He said: “Congratulations on receiving the Diana Award today! You are part of an inspiring generation of young people who are changing the world through your actions, and I admire your efforts greatly.
“Your stories are remarkable. Many of you face great challenges in the face of difficult times, yet you tirelessly break down barriers to creating a better future for all of us. ”
He added: “Thank you for your compassion, courage and absolute determination.
Among the UK winners was Mya-Rose Craig, also known as Birdgirl. The 20-year-old bird expert and fighter for equal rights, from Bristol, created Black2Nature to run nature camps for black and ethnic children of minorities.
Kieran Woodall, 17, who volunteered for more than 800 hours at his local Covid vaccination center in Driffield – mostly by an under-18 in the country, was also made one of this year’s recipients.
And 18-year-old Nina Andersen, from London, who started a non-profit community project when she was just 16 years old. ‘Community Senior Letters’ matches primary schools with care homes, providing elderly residents with a form of human commitment to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness exacerbated by the pandemic.