Adrian Dingiswayo, a 22-year-old humanitarian from Zimbabwe, has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first male Zimbabwean to receive the Global Changemaker Award and the internationally revered Diana Award. These accolades, regarded as the pinnacle of recognition for young humanitarians, celebrate Adrian’s inspiring contributions to social action and community transformation.
The Diana Award, established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, is the highest honour given to individuals aged 9-25 for exceptional humanitarian efforts. Adrian’s journey of impact began after he overcame cerebral meningitis in 2020, a transformative experience that inspired him to help others facing adversity. Through his initiative, Steps of Hope, Adrian has distributed over 500 pairs of school shoes to underprivileged children, empowering them to attend school with dignity.
His influence has also transformed student welfare at Africa University, where he serves as Student Social Welfare Secretary. Adrian spearheaded the Sanitary Pads Campaign, ensuring access to hygiene products for girls who would otherwise miss school. Globally, Adrian is a vocal advocate for sustainable development and water security, using platforms like the United Nations and TED to amplify his message. Meanwhile, his podcast, The Morning Muse, boasting over 850,000 downloads, drives dialogue on pressing societal and cultural issues, resonating with a global audience.
Dr Tessy Ojo CBE, CEO of The Diana Award, commended his achievements, saying: “These young people demonstrate that they have the power to change the world; a belief held by Diana, Princess of Wales. By receiving this honour, they will inspire more young people to get involved in their communities.”
Adrian’s recognition comes after an extensive nomination process. In 2024, over 30,700 nominations from 30 countries were submitted, making this the most competitive year in the Award’s history. Recipients are judged on vision, social impact, leadership, and their ability to inspire others. Adrian’s success underscores the transformative potential of Zimbabwean youth on a global scale.
Today, December 5th 2024, Adrian will be formally presented with the Diana Award by Prince William. His story is one of resilience, leadership, and hope—qualities that not only uplift his community but also inspire a generation to believe in the power of giving back.
