Prince Harry made an emotional video message in support of The Diana Award on the eve of his mother Princess Diana’s 61st birthday.
Harry discussed how important Diana’s voice is to him in a video post on Instagram. This is especially true now that he is married to Meghan Markle and a father to their two children, Archie, 3, and Lilibet, 1.
In the video, Harry remarked that this year was unique. “And one where I hope we take extra time, to not just remember how she lived, but to reflect on the life she continues to lead through so many, including the young changemakers with us today.
“My mother gave me and the rest of the family the desire to speak out and fight for a better world. And now that I’m married and a parent, my mother’s influence on my life is even more pronounced.
“By demonstrating to the world how each small deed counts, how kindness is still valued, and how our world can be better if we choose to make it so,” she said, “you all have helped keep her voice alive.”
Every year on the birthday of the late Princess, the Diana Award is given. In honor of Diana, Princess of Wales, and her conviction that youth have the potential to transform the world, it was founded in 1999.
The nonprofit, which offers mentoring and anti-bullying programs, also honors young people for their admirable efforts. Numerous people and their communities nominate thousands of young people each year to honor these selfless deeds.
On Friday, Prince William released a statement in honor of The Diana Award that included the following part: “Congratulations on receiving The Diana Award today! I am so proud of your efforts because you are a member of an inspiring young generation that is making a difference in the world. Your tales are amazing.
Photo: Getty Images
Many of you face significant obstacles despite the challenging times, but you work tirelessly to remove obstacles so that we can all have better futures. I appreciate your kindness, bravery, and unwavering resolve. You all truly embody my mother’s legacy, and I know she would be so proud of all of you.
I wish that I could have met your mother, Harry. I also wish that she could have lived to meet ALL of her grandchildren. I think that she would have been floating on cloud nine as a grandmother because she was as a mother. She is one of the women in history that I admire. I know that she had a profound influence on the man you are, especially you being so grounded despite having grown up with the wealth and position in society (globally) that you are in. I also think you are who you are because it’s just your nature. It’s innate for you to be able to see beyond the world in which you were raised and be able to empathize and connect with people of all races and strata of society which sounds like someone else we both know…..me.