First International Diana Award Ambassador Name

Jamaican medalist Asafa Powell is the Diana Awards first International Ambassador.

Asafa Powell became the first Jamaican to break the world record and has run more sub 10 second 100m races than any other person in history.

On 4th February 2012 Diana Award Chief Executive Maggie Turner OBE spoke at the University of Technology’s Road to Olympic Glory ceremony and announced Asafa Powell as International Ambassador for the Diana Award at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.

Asafa Powell became the first Jamaican to break the world record and has run more sub 10 second 100m races than any other person in history. Asafa like the young people presented with a Diana Award is an inspiration to those around him. Tragically two of Powell’s brothers died in the space of one year, despite this difficult time, he found the strength to continue running. Asafa, like many of our Award Holders has channelled pain and suffering and used it to make him stronger. Both meet obstacles with determination and perseverance, inspiring others to do more and strive to be better.

Maggie Turner OBE said: “I am honoured to be speaking at the Road to Olympic Glory event in Jamaica. The University of Technology, like the Diana Award inspires, motivates and encourages young people to succeed. Asafa Powell, a former UTech student, is a fantastic role model to young people and we look forward to introducing him to our inspirational Award Holders when he is in London for the 2012 Olympics.”

Youth Entrepreneur Ambassador of the UK, Nathaniel Peat spearheaded the initiative to bring a lasting and international reach for Jamaica, the Caribbean and the world.

Nathaniel Peat said: “It is so important that young people are recognised for their contribution to society, I wanted to connect the Diana Award to Jamaica to help change the negative perceptions about young people being in gangs and associated with violence. The Diana award is an amazing charity and helps to inspire young people to excel and works in line with the vision of the University of Technology, Jamaica.”

The Diana Award was established in 1999 in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, as a legacy to her belief in the power of young people to change the world. The International Diana Award is in keeping with the remarkable charitable work that Diana herself pioneered all around the world. Recipients are young people from across the globe who are committed to helping others and improving their communities.

The Diana Award has been presented to inspirational young people from all circumstances and sections of society, who are committed to taking social action, whether they work as volunteers, fundraisers, campaigners or carers or anyone who improves our community. Every Award Holder has demonstrated the qualities associated with the late Princess – compassion and a selfless commitment to improving the lives of others.

To nominate inspirational individuals and groups of young people aged between 9 and 18 for the International Diana Award visit www.diana-award.org.uk deadline closes on 18th May and 9th November 2012.

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