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On July 24th, Princess Diana would have turned 63 years old. While she may no longer be with us, her memory and impact live on, as demonstrated at this year’s Diana Award ceremony. Held annually, the Diana Award recognizes young people between 9-25 years old for their outstanding humanitarian and social efforts in their communities.
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The 2024 ceremony held extra significance as it was Prince Harry’s first time attending since relocating to the United States. As Diana’s youngest son, Harry has long been dedicated to continuing her compassionate work and ensuring her values are honored for generations to come.
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In his keynote speech to the award recipients and attendees, Harry spoke touching words about the profound and lasting influence his mother has had on his own life and perspective. “Not a day goes by that I don’t think about the mark my mother left on me and my brother,” he said. Diana instilled in both her sons a drive to help those in need and amplify the voices of the vulnerable. This guiding principle is something Harry strives to embody through all his endeavors, from his charitable foundations to his advocacy work on global issues.
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As a father himself now to Archie and Lilibet, Harry sees Diana’s spirit living on through his children. “I see her Legacy in my kids in the way they care for others and fight for a better world.” Having experienced the joys and responsibilities of parenthood has given Harry an even deeper appreciation for all Diana sacrificed and championed in her efforts to help others. Her compassionate example is something he hopes to pass down to the next generation.
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While Harry’s older brother Prince William congratulated award recipients via letter, he did not attend the ceremony himself. Royal commentators noted this as a sign of the estrangement between the brothers in recent years. Diana would have been heartbroken to see the fracturing of the bond she had hoped would keep her sons united. However, through honoring her legacy of service, there is still hope this rift may one day heal.
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Indeed, Diana’s steadfast dedication to uplifting those in need was palpable throughout the award ceremony. As Harry met with honorees, he was struck by the parallels between their important work and his mother’s lifelong mission. He described encountering “families and children from around the world who have been positively impacted by the Diana Award Community.” Interacting with these inspiring young changemakers reinforced Harry’s belief that he sees “my mother’s spirit in all of you.”
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Two award recipients in particular exemplified carrying on Diana’s compassionate legacy. Samantha Giles, 22, from the UK was recognized for providing crucial mental health resources to teenagers in her area. Drawing from her own struggles with mental illness, she founded a non-profit offering free counseling workshops and peer support programs. “
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