Prince William speaks of the importance of diversity in the arts

The Prince of Wales made a surprise visit to the BAFTA headquarters to celebrate young artists encourage diversity on screen.

The royal, who has served as President of BAFTA since 2010, attended an event to celebrate the Prince William BAFTA Bursary winners this year. Students from the National Film and TV School were also in attendance.

In a speech, William said: “Opening the door to the creative industries to as many young and talented individuals as possible, also includes working to ensure that young people are exposed to as wide a variety of voices and narratives as possible, as early as possible. And ensuring that young people from all backgrounds can see themselves reflected on screen.”

The event was co-hosted by two of William’s patronages: BAFTA and the Royal African Society.

Since the bursary’s inception in 2021, more than 150 young people have benefited from its support and gone on to work in all aspects of television, film or the gaming industry.

William praised the screen arts as “an important part of the fabric of our lives, allowing different voices and perspectives to be accessed and enjoyed in the comfort of our own homes.”

He continued: “That’s why, as you have heard today, it is so crucial that aspiring creative professionals—regardless of their background or circumstance—have a real opportunity to bring their ideas and stories to life.”

William was joined by actors Andy Serkis, Celia Imrie, Stephen Merchant, and director Paul Greengrass for the event. All donate to the bursary fund.

The royal was overheard telling guests how Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis fight over the remote control, and also pleaded with Greengrass to make another Jason Bourne film.

He later met with film students and artists, and also with young people working with the Royal African Society’s Film Africa Festival.

Of their work, William said: “For over 120 years, the Royal African Society of which I am proud to be Patron, has worked so hard to create opportunities for people to connect and celebrate a wide range of topics and ideas about Africa.

“This includes hosting events like the Film Africa festival – of which you have just seen a snapshot – helping to provide an invaluable platform for people in the UK to access the brilliant creativity of African and African-heritage film makers.”

On social media, Kensington Palace wrote: “Huge thanks to @BAFTA and the @royafrisoc for highlighting the importance of nurturing underrepresented and diverse voices, and supporting aspiring young talent.”