Prince Harry attend charity awards ceremony on UK return

Prince Harry embarked on a journey from California to London, showing up at the 2023 WellChild Awards. The 38-year-old Duke of Sussex appeared genuinely cheerful at the ceremony on Thursday, September 7, flashing a warm smile for the photos on the step-and-repeat. His attire for the occasion was a navy suit paired with a crisp white button-down shirt and a light blue patterned tie.

Caring Child winner Poppy dances on stage with @itsDannyJones. Who’s got the best moves? Remember to watch the #WellChildAwards, in association with @GSK, LIVE at https://t.co/7gbmhjm3hK pic.twitter.com/n0b0W1r3G4

— WellChild (@WellChild) September 7, 2023

Prince Harry had shared his intention to attend the event back in August, expressing his deep connection to WellChild’s mission. He stated, “For nearly 20 years, WellChild has been transforming the lives of children and young people across the U.K., providing critical care that prioritizes the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of these individuals and their families.

The courage and strength embodied by these young people — and the tireless devotion of those who support them — never cease to inspire me. I’m honored to attend this year’s awards ceremony and celebrate their incredible work.”

During the ceremony, Prince Harry not only presented the Award for Inspirational Child (aged 4 to 6) but also delivered a heartfelt speech. He also made sure to spend quality time with each winner and their families during a pre-ceremony reception, where he listened to their stories and contributed to creating lasting memories.

Looking ahead, Harry and his wife Meghan Markle have plans to travel to Düsseldorf, Germany, for the 2023 Invictus Games later in the week. A spokesperson for the couple shared in an August statement, “The Duke will be in attendance throughout the entirety of the games and will be joined by The Duchess shortly after the games begin.”

The WellChild Awards hold a special place in Prince Harry’s heart, as he has been a patron of the organization, which assists seriously ill children, for 15 years and has attended the event 11 times.

Hayley and Poppy have been chatting to WellChild Patron The Duke of Sussex at the #WellChildAwards, in association with @GSK. Poppy even showed him and @GabyRoslin her dance moves! pic.twitter.com/Eua4Yis8vm

— WellChild (@WellChild) September 7, 2023

Meghan, at 42, had previously accompanied her husband to the 2018 and 2019 ceremonies. Last year, their presence was expected at the U.K. event on September 8, but they made the difficult decision to skip it after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on that very day.