Princess Leonor once again became one of the standout figures at the 2026 Princess of Girona Awards, an event that has become closely associated with her growing role within the Spanish Royal Family.
Since taking on a more active public role, the heir to the throne has made supporting young talent one of her key priorities, reflecting one of the Crown's long-standing commitments.
© Carlos AlvarezJoined by King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and Infanta Sofía at Barcelona's Gran Teatre del Liceu, Princess Leonor presented this year's awards before closing the ceremony with a speech that quickly became one of the evening's most memorable moments.
A passionate defense of young talent:
After meeting each of the award winners, Princess Leonor delivered another confident and thoughtful address, showcasing the poise and public speaking skills she has steadily developed since her first major speech in 2019.
© MPGRather than focusing on herself, the future queen used her remarks to celebrate young people who are quietly transforming society through science, technology, culture, education, and social action.
Speaking with warmth and sincerity, Leonor introduced the people she considers her true role models, describing them as her "Natural Intelligences."
© CORDON PRESS"My favorite influencers are not famous"
One of the most talked-about moments of the speech came when Princess Leonor explained that her favorite influencers "are not people considered successful, famous, or glamorous." Instead, she praised individuals who inspire through their work, values, and commitment to improving the world.
© Carlos AlvarezAmong those she highlighted were people who "train bacteria," "fall in love with problems in order to solve them," "discover exoplanets," and those who tell "something important with talent and from the depths of human experience."
Through these examples, Leonor offered a different vision of influence, one rooted in curiosity, perseverance, critical thinking, and kindness rather than celebrity status.
© MPGShe described these individuals as her "Natural Intelligences," people who prove that true influence comes not from fame but from the positive impact they leave on others.
The inspiring people Princess Leonor chose to highlight:
Among those singled out during her speech was Mechi Bidart, creator of a digital microfinance platform that provides opportunities to people excluded from the traditional financial system.
© Carlos AlvarezPrincess Leonor praised Bidart's work for helping people "unlock their dignity and grow," describing it as an example of technology being used with humanity and purpose.
She also recognized Hatim Azahri, founder of Joves Units del Poble Sec, an organization created to address the lack of sports facilities and opportunities for young people in one of Barcelona's neighborhoods.
© Carlos AlvarezLeonor applauded his ability to transform "helplessness into organization, and discomfort into connection and community," emphasizing the importance of guidance and education in helping young people discover their potential.
Celebrating science, culture, and innovation:
The princess also paid tribute to astrophysicists Rafael Luque and José Eduardo Méndez, whose research continues to expand humanity's understanding of the universe.
© Carlos AlvarezShe praised filmmaker Gemma Blasco for her film 'La Furia,' which explores sexual violence against women, as well as Patricia Aymà, creator of sustainable bioplastics made from organic waste, highlighting her work as an example of environmentally responsible innovation.
Through these examples, Princess Leonor delivered a clear message, explaining that society has a responsibility to support young talent by providing the right opportunities at the right moment.
© Paolo BloccoHer speech celebrated those working in science, culture, technology, and social action to build a future defined by greater knowledge, opportunity, and humanity.
As Leonor concluded her address, King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and Infanta Sofía looked on with visible pride, smiling as they applauded the future queen's message.
