how to get diana award

3 min read 17-01-2025

The Diana Award is a prestigious accolade recognizing young people (aged 9-25) for their social action or humanitarian work. Named in honor of Princess Diana, it celebrates individuals making a positive impact on their communities and the world. Getting the Diana Award is a significant achievement, demonstrating commitment and dedication to positive change. This guide outlines the steps involved in the application process.

Understanding the Diana Award

Before delving into the application, it's crucial to understand the award's core values. The Diana Award isn't simply about volunteering; it's about making a sustained impact. Judges look for evidence of:

Positive Social Impact: Has your work demonstrably improved the lives of others?
Commitment and Perseverance: How long have you been involved? What challenges did you overcome?
Leadership and Initiative: Did you initiate the project, or lead a team?
Innovation and Creativity: Did you develop a unique approach to a problem?
Sustainability: Is your work designed to have lasting effects?

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

The application process itself is straightforward, but requires careful preparation and attention to detail.

1. Eligibility Check

First, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. This typically includes:

Age: Being between 9 and 25 years old.
Location: Residing in the UK or internationally, depending on the specific award category.
Social Action or Humanitarian Work: Having actively participated in a project that benefits others.

2. Gathering Evidence

This is the most critical step. You need strong evidence to support your claims. Gather materials such as:

Photos: Visual documentation of your project and its impact.
Videos: Short videos showcasing your work.
Letters of Support: Testimonials from beneficiaries or supervisors.
Reports: Data illustrating the positive outcomes of your efforts.
News Articles: Media coverage of your project (if any).
Project Description: A clear and concise description of the project, its goals, and its achievements.

3. Completing the Application Form

The application form itself is detailed. Take your time and answer all questions thoroughly. Use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon. Focus on:

Impact: Quantify the positive change you've created wherever possible. Use numbers to show results.
Challenges: Describe the difficulties you faced and how you overcame them.
Sustainability: Explain how your project will continue to have an impact in the future.

4. Submitting your Application

Ensure you meet the deadline. Late applications are generally not accepted. Double-check all the information before submitting.

5. The Selection Process

After submission, your application will be reviewed by a panel of judges. The selection process is rigorous, and only candidates demonstrating exceptional commitment and impact will be awarded.

Types of Diana Awards

The Diana Award isn't just one award; there are several categories, including:

The Diana Award (Individual): For individuals who have made a significant contribution.
The Diana Award (Team): For groups or organizations working collaboratively.
The Diana Legacy Award: Recognizes significant contributions to positive social change, often through long-term commitment.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early: Begin gathering evidence and drafting your application well in advance of the deadline.
Be Specific: Avoid vague statements. Provide concrete examples to illustrate your points.
Show, Don't Tell: Use compelling evidence to demonstrate your impact, rather than simply stating it.
Proofread Carefully: Errors in grammar and spelling can detract from your application.
Seek Feedback: Ask a trusted mentor or teacher to review your application before submission.

Conclusion

The Diana Award is a testament to the power of young people to make a positive difference. By following these steps, dedicating time to thorough preparation, and showcasing the real impact of your work, you significantly increase your chances of receiving this prestigious award. Remember, the process celebrates your dedication to social change; even if you aren't selected, your efforts already make a difference. Keep striving for positive change!