Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Humanitarian of the Week: Prince William of Wales

With today’s official announcement of the engagement of Prince William of Wales to Kate Middleton, it’s the perfect chance to remind ourselves just how much the prince has followed in his famous mother’s footsteps as a humanitarian.


His Royal Highness’ first forays into the world of humanitarian work came as a child alongside his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. She would take both of her young sons with her to clinics and hospitals to visit patients suffering from painful illnesses so that her children would know that there were people who needed their help. As a young man, Prince William took his mother’s lead and became a patron of people with HIV. In 2005, Prince William worked alongside many other volunteers to pack relief kits for people who had been affected by the disastrous tsunami. The prince has worked as a volunteer in various departments at The Royal Marsden Hospital, and has worked with and is a patron of the Mountain Rescue of England and Wales.

In 2007, Prince William launched a 5000 mile bike ride across the continent of Africa as part of his official duties as a patron of The Tusk Trust—an organization dedicated to protecting the wildlife and fostering community growth in Africa.

In addition to his royal duties and his military duties, Prince William of Wales has proven to be a very conscientious and courageous person. I’m sure we look forward to all he has to offer the world in the future as well as offer our congratulations on his recent engagement.

Remember, you still have a chance to submit your nominations for “Humanitarian of the Year” through the month of November.

No comments: