On July 23, 2025, Princess Leonor presided over the prestigious Princess of Girona Awards , alongside her parents, King Don Felipe and Queen Letizia , as well as her sister, the Infanta Sofia . This year’s ceremony took place at the grand Liceu Theatre in Barcelona , highlighting the royal family’s continued commitment to social contribution and recognition of young talent.
During her speech, Princess Leonor lauded the six winners of the awards for their remarkable ability to address complex global challenges. She remarked, “You approach the complexity of the world and transform it into solutions,” emphasizing their innovative contributions to society. The essence of the awards revolves around recognizing individuals who embody a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference.
Leonor specifically commended the awardees for their foresight and determination, stating, “You have anticipated the challenges and worked long-term in a world where everything is urgent.” Her message resonated with the audience, capturing the essence of dedication and hard work in an increasingly demanding environment.
The Princess of Girona Foundation organized this celebration, which aims to empower the youth and foster a commitment to excellence and social responsibility. In her address, Princess Leonor expressed gratitude toward the foundation’s supporters and staff, stressing the organization’s role in nurturing a vision for a better society.
She emphasized the importance of patience and talent , stating, “Thank you for your determination and patience to persevere, and for putting so much talent at the service of society.” This acknowledgment demonstrates a strong encouragement to young leaders who strive to enact positive change in their communities.
Leonor also took a moment to underline the cultural significance of the Liceu Theatre. She referenced it as a “sanctuary of the arts,” a symbol of Barcelona’s identity and a beacon of cultural expression. Her appreciation for art extended to recent performances, mentioning the opera Rusalka by Dvořák, which garnered admiration for its collective emotion and artistic excellence.
The Princess’s speech highlighted her own engagement with literature and the arts, indicating her pursuit of knowledge and connection with cultural lineage. She mentioned her ongoing summer readings and looked forward to receiving the illustrious author Eduardo Mendoza in Oviedo , showcasing her dedication to intellectual growth.
The winners of this year’s awards, hailing from diverse backgrounds, epitomized innovation and altruism. Each recipient represents a beacon of hope for future generations, encouraging youth worldwide to strive for greatness and make meaningful contributions to society. They have tackled pressing issues—ranging from environmental challenges to social inequalities—thus embodying the spirit of the Princess of Girona Awards .
This year’s event served not only as a celebration of individual accomplishments but also as a rallying call for collective action among youth. It positions young leaders as integral to global solutions, echoing Princess Leonor’s calls for engagement, perseverance, and ethical responsibility.
The event culminated in heartfelt applause from attendees, recognizing the *passion * and commitment reflected in both the awards and the royal family’s presence. As Princess Leonor continues to step into her role, her words resonate with a generation eager for change and inspiration. The spirit of commitment to a better world shines brightly, ensuring the legacy of the Princess of Girona Awards remains impactful and transformative for years to come.
In conclusion, the Princess of Girona Awards symbolize the blend of youth, creativity, and a passion for societal betterment. As these young leaders carve their paths, they inspire numerous others to follow suit, reaffirming the notion that the future holds limitless possibilities.