The British royal family has had a noteworthy November, with engagements reflecting their public commitments and personal challenges.
Prince William Wraps Up Earthshot Week in South Africa
Prince William wrapped up Earthshot Week on November 6, 2024, with the Earthshot Prize Awards held in Cape Town, South Africa. The event marked a significant milestone as the first Earthshot Awards ceremony hosted on the African continent. Held at the custom-designed Earthshot Prize Dome near Cape Town Stadium, the awards celebrated innovative environmental solutions.
Five winners received $1.2 million grants each for their impactful projects, including two African-led initiatives: Ghana’s Green Africa Youth Organization, focused on waste management, and Kenya’s Keep It Cool, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste.
The vibrant ceremony also highlighted African cultural performances, amplifying the continent’s diverse contributions to sustainability
Kate Middleton’s Return to Major Royal Engagements
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, made a poignant return to major royal engagements during the Remembrance weekend on November 9–10, 2024. Attending the Festival of Remembrance at Royal Albert Hall and the Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph, she joined senior royals to honor military sacrifices. Her appearances marked her first public duties since completing chemotherapy earlier this year. Kate, visibly emotional, stood alongside Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, reflecting on the solemn occasion with a symbolic poppy brooch and heartfelt tribute.
Prince William, seen offering support to Kate, described 2024 as a “brutal year” for their family due to her and King Charles III’s cancer diagnoses. Kate’s return signifies resilience and her readiness to resume royal responsibilities after months focusing on her health. Her presence was warmly received, highlighting her role as a central figure in the royal family and a future queen consort
King Charles Hosts King Hamad of Bahrain
Otherwise, on November 11, 2024, King Charles III has hosted King Hamad of Bahrain at Windsor Castle to commemorate the Bahraini king’s silver jubilee. The visit featured an inspection of the Guard of Honour by the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards and a private tea meeting, highlighting the strong diplomatic and personal ties between the UK and Bahrain.
(Photo by Yui Mok – WPA Pool/Getty Images)
Visiting Royal Marines…
Following that, on November 15, 2024, King Charles visited the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, Devon, marking a return to the site where he underwent training in 1974. Reflecting on his own experiences, the King described the training as “uncomfortable” but meaningful. During the visit, he presented the King’s Badge to a recruit, Osian Stephens, for his perseverance despite injury, a rare honor last awarded by King George VI in 1939.
The King also participated in the passing out parade for senior recruits, honoring their achievement of earning the coveted Green Beret. In his speech, he expressed admiration for the Marines’ dedication and resilience, highlighting their crucial role in maintaining peace and security. This visit reinforced his longstanding connection to the Royal Marines, a relationship further strengthened by his personal military service
Ongoing: Queen Camilla’s Recovery
Throughout the month, Queen Camilla has been absent from several engagements, including the Remembrance Day ceremonies. The palace announced her recovery from a seasonal chest infection, with plans to resume her duties shortly.
Looking Ahead
The royal family is preparing for the festive season, with events like Kate Middleton’s “Together at Christmas” carol concert at Westminster Abbey set to take place in December. These celebrations are anticipated to bring the family together after a tumultuous year.
This timeline highlights a mix of personal resilience and commitment to public service, reaffirming the royal family’s enduring presence in national and global affairs.
