Princess Anne has delivered a heartfelt message honouring the extraordinary role of Canadian and British women during the World Wars, urging young people to keep their stories alive for generations to come.
The Princess Royal recorded the special address for The Maple Leaf Trust’s Stories Behind the Poppy programme, created to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
Her message formed part of an educational initiative bringing together schools across the United Kingdom and Canada to explore the sacrifice and leadership of women.
Anne praised the countless women who stepped forward to serve in the Armed Forces and support the war effort in a wide range of vital roles, both on the front line and at home.
She reminded students that many volunteered out of patriotism, a determination to make a difference and a sense of adventure, while others broke barriers and challenged expectations at a time when opportunities for pioneers were limited.
Looking back to the Second World War, the Princess also recalled the words of her grandmother, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, who paid tribute in 1940 to women serving their countries through “splendid and unselfish help” across every field of national service.
She stressed that remembering the past is about more than honouring history and is about recognising how those change-makers helped build a fairer and more equal society for future generations.
She said the stories of wartime women demonstrate that progress towards equality benefits everyone, creating stronger and safer communities where people can contribute and lead regardless of gender.
The Princess concluded with a powerful message of hope, telling the young audience that they are the future and that it is through their interest and willingness to learn that the courage and sacrifices of both women and men will continue to be remembered for generations to come.
Queen Camilla has also been a long-time supporter of the Poppy Project.
Last October, Her Majesty visited the community initiative on the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
She attached the final knitted poppy to a stunning cascade of thousands of handmade poppies draped down a church tower.
2026-08-02 17:14:00
