The Queen hosts a Commonwealth Diaspora Reception at Buckingham Palace
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The Queen, as Head of the Commonwealth, has hosted a reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the achievements of the Commonwealth Diaspora community.
The reception offered an opportunity to recognise people of Commonwealth heritage who have made a positive contribution to business, community and culture in the United Kingdom.
Guests from all works of life were invited to the reception, and everyone who was invited had the chance to meet Her Majesty.
The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Duchess of Gloucester, also attended the reception, and had the chance to meet some the incredible people from across the Commonwealth, who have been successful in areas such as business, politics, the arts, sport, diplomacy, religion, charities, youth and community groups.
The Commonwealth is an international organisation, spanning every geographic region, religion and culture. During Her Majesty's reign the organisation has grown from just seven nations to 53 members and now represents over 2.4 billion people.
The Queen has been Head of the Commonwealth throughout her 65 year reign, and while visiting South Africa on her 21st birthday, Her Majesty declared that " that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted" to the Commonwealth.
Tonight's reception is part of the run up to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which is being hosted by The Queen in April. You can find out more about CHOGM HERE.