Amal Clooney praised young women leaders in their communities when presenting them with special honors at the Prince’s Trust Awards, saying lasting change “must be led by people on the ground.”
The wife of prominent lawyer and Hollywood star George Clooney presented a young Tanzanian woman with the Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award at an awards ceremony on Tuesday.
The annual Prince’s Trust Awards recognize young people who have defied adversity, thrived, enhanced life chances, and made a positive impact in their local communities.
Laureate Zamana was honored for launching her own campaign to support girls in Tanzania and encourage them to stay in school.
The campaign, translated as Let Me Study, focuses on helping girls and their parents understand the importance of completing their education.
Speaking at the Women’s Empowerment Awards ceremony, Amal Clooney said: “As a lawyer, I can work to change the law.
“But lasting change must be led by people on the ground and in the community. Sometimes these leaders are found in girls as young as 16 years old. like.
“Zamana told me that one way to convince parents to let their girls study is to show them a successful woman, and I knew one day she would be one of them. I have no doubt.”
The actor also presented the Homesense Young Achiever of the Year award to 24-year-old Joanna Drewwet from south Manchester.
Drewwett was admitted to a mental hospital at age 15, which hampered her education, and she left school with just three GCSEs before contacting The Prince’s Trust.
When presenting the award to Joanna, Graham said: “Joanna, she should be very proud of herself.
“This is a true testament to her strength and determination. Congratulations on your award and best of luck in the future.”
Awards were also presented by high-profile supporters and Prince Trust ambassadors, including Edward Enninful, Geri Horner, Fearn Cotton, Holly Willoughby, Rylan Clarke and Kate Garraway.
Tuesday’s event was hosted by celebrity presenters and long-term Prince’s Trust ambassadors Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly and featured performances by riders.
Ryder, who was heavily involved in the recent Eurovision celebrations in Liverpool, said he had “only respect” for those who have survived life’s “troubles and challenges”.
“I’ve had a dream of making a career in music since I was about 14… It took a long time, but the only thing I can say is never give up.
“You have a desire and fire in your heart to enrich your life by sharing music for reasons other than connecting with strangers.
“So I have nothing but respect for those who share the same spirit and vigor.”
He added, “No matter what happens in life, no matter what failures, tribulations and difficulties they face, they will never stop their quest to share the light.”
Prince Charles will meet this year’s Prince’s Trust Award winners at a reception at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.