The Duke of Edinburgh welcomes Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award holders to Buckingham Palace
Published 15/05/2023
In His Royal Highness’ role as Patron of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), The Duke of Edinburgh will host four celebratory events for young people across two days – Monday 15 May and Friday 19 May 2023.
Throughout the week, over 9,000 young people will be welcomed to the Buckingham Palace Garden, and are the first Gold DofE Award Celebrations hosted by His Royal Highness as Duke of Edinburgh.
At these special events, the Buckingham Palace Garden was transformed into a festival-style celebration, with guests having the chance to hear from famous DofE Award holders and take part in a range of lawn games and activities.
During each event, guests will be invited to gather in front of the West Terrace Steps for the National Anthem and to hear speeches from The Duke of Edinburgh, DofE alumni and inspirational figures offering insights from their own lives and careers.
At the first celebration on Monday 15 May, The Duke gave a speech about the impact of the Awards, alongside television presenter, former professional footballer, and Silver DofE Award holder Jermaine Jenas.
19-year-old, Gold Award achiever Ffion Davies also told the attendees how the DofE gave her the confidence to follow her dream to become a firefighter.
His Royal Highness also met people who have shown extraordinary perseverance, creativity, and resilience to complete their Gold DofE Award in schools, community organisations, youth groups and workplaces, all over the UK.
About The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Founded by Prince Philip in 1956, The Award helps young people build their confidence and develop key life skills in order to reach their full potential.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been a focus of The Duke of Edinburgh’s life and work for four decades since achieving his own Gold Award in 1986. His Royal Highness has played a leadership role in the Award’s development in the United Kingdom and overseas over many years, taking on many responsibilities for its charities from his father.
After becoming The Duke of Edinburgh in March 2023, His Royal Highness was announced Patron of the Award and its international counterpart.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award charity recently announced record-breaking participation numbers, with 537,759 young people actively taking part in 2022/23, 323,676 starting their DofE.
Related content
The King's speech at the AI Summit in Scotland
The decisions taken at this formative time will shape the world inherited by future generations.
A message from The King following devastating wildfires across the UK and Europe
As the work of recovery still goes on for many, the compassion and fortitude of the communities affected shine through.
Announcement of a State Visit by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Sultan of Oman
Remarks by His Majesty The King at the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition, British Museum
The King’s speech at the opening of the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition.
A message from The King following the demise of King Harald V of Norway
It is with the most profound sadness that my wife and I have learned of the death of my dear cousin, King Harald V of Norway. For thirty-five years, King Harald served his...
A message from The King to all those affected by the tragedy on the Nepal-China border.
My wife and I are heartbroken to hear of the devastating flooding that has struck the Nepal-China border. Many in the United Kingdom have strong, deep and personal ties to...
A message from The King following the devastating earthquake in Colombia.
To the people of Colombia, My wife and I were so dreadfully saddened to learn of the devastating earthquake that has struck your country, and the tragic loss of life and...
Announcement of the birth of Princess Eugenie and Mr Brooksbank’s baby
A message from The King ahead of the Closing Ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
The Games have served as a stage for outstanding athletic excellence, a joyful celebration of all that unites our Commonwealth nations and a powerful reminder of sport’s...
A message from The King to open the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
We celebrate the dedication and talent of every athlete and team. Your perseverance inspires us, and we eagerly anticipate your achievements in the coming days.
A message from The King to the President of Guyana, following the capsizing of the MV Barima
Dear Mr. President, My wife and I were most profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of the appallingly tragic loss of life following the capsizing of the M.V. Barima. I...
A speech by The King in Tynwald, Isle of Man
On an island such as this, one never feels far from the marvellous landscapes and the sea that surrounds us, from the heights of Snaefell to the wooded glens and beautiful...
The King's message to mark the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence
The story of the relationship between our two nations is one of extraordinary evolution, from overcoming conflict to forging one of the closest and most productive alliances...
The King's message following the earthquakes in Venezuela
To the people of Venezuela, My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the devastating earthquakes that have struck your country, and of the tragic loss of life and...
Financial reports 2025-26
The Royal Household has published its annual financial statement, the Sovereign Grant Report, detailing how public funding supported the official duties of The Royal Family...
The King's speech at at Government House, Bermuda
Returning to Bermuda on this occasion has been a particular joy, and especially to celebrate anew all those who have contributed to its history, and those now shaping its...
A speech by The King on the Presentation of New Colours to the Royal Marines, Windsor Castle
It is most heartening to see the representatives of some of our oldest and closest international allies and partners present on this very special occasion. I can only pray...
The King's remarks at the Gurkha Artillery Formation Parade, Larkhill
This occasion marks not simply the union of two distinguished institutions, but a powerful reaffirmation of the enduring and deeply valued relationship between the United...
A speech by The Queen at the Founder's Day Parade, Royal Hospital Chelsea
You offer care, camaraderie and community to those men and women who have served our nation, while always upholding the highest of standards.
