After a successful week in Singapore amidst a host of green-themed engagements and the third edition of the Earthshot Prize, the Prince of Wales reflected on his path moving forward and his intention to “go a step further” than other members of his family with his royal work.
Speaking on his last day in Singapore, William sat down with the press corps assigned to the Earthshot Prize trip and spoke of his new role.
The Prince said, “I care about so many things and previously the family have been very much spotlighting brilliantly and going round and highlighting lots—I want to go a step further.
“I want to actually bring change, and I want to bring people to the table who can do the change if I can’t do it.”
Calling it “social leadership,” William said his intention moving forward is about “progressing, helping and advancing particular social causes that need to be given more support.”
In the past four years, Prince William has not only launched The Earthshot Prize—which has grown in size and stature since the initial launch on 31 December 2019—but Homewards UK, which aims to help communities around the United Kingdom find workable solutions for the unhoused populations in their areas.
Speaking about his work in this area, William said: “I’ve been in the homelessness sector for a long time now, and so rather than just being patron, I want to do more. I want to actually build the homes, I want to provide them with the mental support, all the employment and the education they might need.”
In the past, the Royal Family has been particularly renowned for the sheer breadth of patronages, visits and causes they support.
The late Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh both held upwards of 600 patronages; King Charles has over 400; Princess Anne, over 300.
The Prince of Wales commented on the number of patronages, causes, and visits, saying, “If you spread yourself too thin, you just can’t manage it, and you won’t deliver the impact or the change that you really want to happen.”
To the new Prince of Wales, it’s all about remaining focused on the causes he supports. “It’s more about: how do I show my intent more? How do we do more for you? And give you a better, better future.”
