ISLAMABAD: Eight Pakistanis have been recognised this year by The Diana Award for their inspirational initiatives in education, health and climate action.
They are among 198 recipients from around the world of the award, a global honour celebrating young social activists driving positive change in their communities and beyond.
“Rooted in the legacy of Diana, Princess of Wales, the award celebrates young people who are working tirelessly to change the world — particularly those championing change for individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds,” the charity's website states.
Each year, up to 200 exceptional young people are honoured with The Diana Award, which recognises youth-led projects and initiatives aligned with four key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): quality education, good health and wellbeing, reduced inequalities, and climate action.
The Pakistani recipients are Ali Ahmed Manj, who aims to improve access to healthcare; Areeba Suleman, founder of SheRise Pakistan; Mariam Rehman, who heads The Pro-Justice Project; Muhammad Ibrahim, who used digital mapping to help flood-affected people; Noor Abdul Ghani, who encourages girls to pursue science and technology; Reya Yassir Khawaja, who raises awareness of menstrual hygiene; Sara Ali, who supports polio campaigns; and Vishal Parkash, who works to improve financial access for marginalised communities.
They received letters from Kensington Palace, the office of Prince William and his wife Kate, as well as Prince Harry, following the announcement of the awards on Nov 4.
In a letter to Suleman, seen by Dawn and seemingly identical to those sent to all honourees, Prince William praised her resilience, courage, compassion and belief in kindness.
“The impact you are having on your community and the lives of those around you is remarkable,” the letter read.
“The world we live in today can feel challenging and uncertain, and creating change is not easy. Yet, in the face of these challenges, you have shown extraordinary resilience, courage and a belief in the power of kindness to make things better.”
The Prince of Wales added: “My mother, in whose memory you receive The Diana Award today, would be so proud of your achievements and the deep care you show for others.”
In his letter, Prince Harry wrote: “This award is deeply personal to me, not only because it carries my mother’s name, but because it champions her belief that young people have the power to change the world.”
Noting that the recipient had made it her mission to address challenges in her community, he said: “You are already leading with purpose and the rest of us have a responsibility to listen, invest in you and give you real opportunities to take that work further.” - The Dawn/ANN
