LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrives at the Tusk Conservation Awards on November 22, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Prince Williamis honoring wildlife conservationists who are protecting endangered species in Africa.

The royal attended the annual Tusk Conservation Awards at the BFI Southbank in London on Monday, marking a glittering return to an in-person ceremony for the charity as last year’s event was conducted virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the ceremony, he presented each of the winners with their awards, before making a short speech. Afterward, he spent time with the winners and key members and supporters of the trust to hear more about their vital work on the frontline of conservation efforts in Africa.

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrives at the Tusk Conservation Awards on November 22, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

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“Earlier this evening I spent time chatting to the award winners and finalists. Their courage, determination and commitment to African conservation is deeply humbling,” William said, in part, in his speech.

“As ever, it’s been fantastic to see their outstanding work on the big screen,” he added. “These wonderful films really bring their powerful and inspiring stories to life.”

William noted that it’s been two years since being able to stage a live Tusk Awards event. “In that time,” he said, “the world has been turned upside down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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prince william in africa

His environmental journey has reached new heights with his Earthshot Prize, which aims to promote impactful approaches to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. Last monthsaw the inaugural Earthshot Prizeceremony, which William helped host along with wifeKate Middleton.

Environmental champion at a recent event with Kate Middleton.Samir Hussein/WireImage

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 01: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge during a visit to Alexandra Park Sports Hub on day two of COP26 on November 01, 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland. 2021 sees the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference which will run from 31 October for two weeks, finishing on 12 November. It was meant to take place in 2020 but was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage )

Earlier this month, he and Kateattended the COP26climate talks to help keep up the pressure for a decision on cutting carbon emissions.

source: people.com