The 25th annual Diana Award ceremony was held in 2024, marking a milestone in continuing the legacy of Diana, Princess of Wales. The Diana Award, established in 1999, remains the only charity founded in the late princess’s memory and continues to celebrate young people around the world who inspire and drive social change.
While public interest often focuses on the dynamics within the royal family, this year’s ceremony drew attention primarily for its emphasis on Diana’s values of compassion, kindness, and community service. Prince William, Diana’s eldest son, played a central role in the proceedings, underscoring his personal dedication to advancing the mission of the award.
The Diana Award: Continuing a Legacy of Service
The Diana Award charity is supported by the Royal Foundation and endorsed by both Prince William and Prince Harry. It recognizes young changemakers aged 9 to 25 who are making a positive impact in their communities through humanitarian efforts, advocacy, and leadership.
The organization states that its mission is to “foster, develop, and inspire positive change in the lives of young people” (The Diana Award, official website). Over the years, recipients have represented causes such as mental health, climate action, anti-bullying campaigns, and education initiatives.
By championing the work of these young leaders, the Diana Award reflects the humanitarian spirit for which the Princess of Wales was admired globally.
Prince William’s Role in the 2024 Ceremony
At the 2024 ceremony, Prince William, the Prince of Wales, addressed the audience with a focus on his mother’s enduring influence. He highlighted how her values continue to inspire him personally and how they resonate in today’s world through the efforts of young leaders.
William emphasized themes of empathy, social responsibility, and community leadership, noting that these qualities were central to Diana’s public life. His speech echoed sentiments he has expressed in past years, including his statement in 2021 following the Lord Dyson investigation into the 1995 Panorama interview with Princess Diana.
The Impact of the BBC Panorama Investigation
In May 2021, the BBC issued a formal apology after the Lord Dyson investigation concluded that journalist Martin Bashir had used deceptive practices, including forged documents, to secure the infamous Panorama interview with Diana.
Prince William responded publicly, stating that the deceitful way in which the interview was obtained “substantially influenced what my mother said” and contributed to the deepening of her distress. He described the findings as “extremely concerning” and stressed that the interview should never be aired again (BBC News, 2021).
This episode reaffirmed William’s commitment to safeguarding his mother’s memory and ensuring that her legacy is honored with dignity.
Queen Camilla and Diana: A Complex Public History
Much of the media narrative surrounding the Diana Awards often touches upon the historical connection between Diana, Princess of Wales, and Queen Camilla, now consort to King Charles III.
Over the decades, public perception of Camilla has shifted significantly. Once criticized, she has gradually become a respected senior royal through years of charitable work and her support for Charles as monarch. In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II expressed her “sincere wish” that Camilla would be known as Queen Consort when Charles became King (The Royal Family, official statement, 2022).
For William and his brother Prince Harry, the history is inevitably personal, but both have continued to prioritize honoring their mother’s legacy in ways that focus on her humanitarian spirit rather than past conflicts.
Why the Diana Awards Matter Today
The 25th anniversary of the Diana Award was more than a commemorative event — it served as a reminder of the lasting relevance of Diana’s values in contemporary society.
Young recipients of the 2024 award included campaigners for climate action, youth mental health, and anti-discrimination initiatives. Many of them credited Diana’s example as a source of inspiration in their journey.
Research conducted by the Diana Award charity shows that young people today are increasingly motivated to become change agents in their communities. The platform not only honors their contributions but also connects them with global networks of mentors, educational resources, and advocacy opportunities.
Prince William’s Broader Commitment to Youth and Mental Health
Beyond the Diana Award, Prince William has consistently prioritized initiatives that reflect his mother’s passions. Through the Royal Foundation, he and Princess Catherine have spearheaded projects such as Heads Together, a campaign to destigmatize mental health, and the Earthshot Prize, which promotes solutions to environmental challenges.
These initiatives echo Diana’s commitment to breaking social taboos and championing causes that were often overlooked in her time, such as HIV/AIDS awareness, landmine removal, and youth homelessness.
By aligning his work with her legacy, William continues to connect past and present royal service in a meaningful way.
The Ceremony as a Reflection of Diana’s Spirit
The 2024 Diana Award ceremony reinforced the enduring resonance of Diana’s compassion-driven approach. Attendees and global viewers alike saw a program that placed the achievements of young leaders at its heart, with the royal family’s role serving to amplify — not overshadow — their voices.
By focusing on the recipients’ stories and the values they embody, the event stayed true to Diana’s belief in uplifting the marginalized and celebrating everyday acts of kindness.
Conclusion: Honoring Diana With Dignity and Purpose
The 25th annual Diana Awards served as a powerful reminder of Princess Diana’s lasting influence — not only on her sons but on millions of people worldwide. Prince William’s central role underscored his determination to preserve his mother’s legacy with integrity, ensuring that her life continues to inspire future generations.
Rather than focusing on royal dynamics, the event highlighted what Diana herself valued most: compassion, empathy, and the power of young people to change the world.
As the monarchy evolves under King Charles III, the Diana Award remains a living testament to the late Princess of Wales — and a beacon for the values she championed.
