THE Diana Award – the charity legacy to Princess Diana’s belief that young people have the power to change their world – has been launched this month to mark the 20th anniversary of Princess of Wales’ death.

Supported by her sons, The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry, nominations are now open to young people from around the globe.

The award will be presented to 20 exceptional young people from across the world, aged nine to 18, for their selfless commitment to transforming the lives of others.

These young people will be selected from a poll of nominations by an independent judging panel headed by Dame Julia Clevedon, founder of Step Up To Serve, with the awards being presented at a special legacy ceremony in May.

As well as receiving the Legacy Award, recipients will have access to a unique development programme which will provide them with the opportunity to enhance their skills in four key areas – leadership, community development, social entrepreneurship, and technology for good.

As the search begins for these exceptional young people who embody the late princess’ qualities of compassion, kindness and service, the Diana Award calls out to communities and groups to nominate a young person who is deserving of such honour.

Tessy Ojo, chief executive of the Diana Award, said: “Diana, Princess of Wales is widely remembered for her values of compassion, kindness and service to others, irrespective of their culture, race or background.

“Twenty years since her death it’s heartening to know that her legacy lives on through the lives of thousands of young people across the world. Our theme for this 20th anniversary year is centred on Princess Diana’s values of kindness, compassion and service.”

The deadline for nominations is March 17.

For more information and to register nominations, visit diana-award.org.uk.