Prince William and Heidi Klum Host Barbecue by the Sea in South Africa
Prince William concluded his South Africa visit at Kalk Bay Harbour near Cape Town. Among his guests was model and TV presenter Heidi Klum. The purpose of their meeting was to raise awareness about sustainable fishing practices.
Joining them were actor Billy Porter and model Winnie Harlow. During the event, they discussed the upcoming Earthshot Prize Awards, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6. The gathering featured a traditional South African barbecue called a "braai."
William arrived at the harbour by lifeboat after visiting members of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). An enthusiastic local crowd greeted him as he arrived on the quay. He took an unexpected stroll, interacting with hundreds of residents near the fishermen's stalls.
Kate Wardle, 47, presented him with beaded key rings from a local vendor. "They had W and C on, plus gifts for the kids," she shared with PEOPLE. "I said, ‘Here they are if you'd like to take them.’"
William thanked her, responding, "Never go home empty-handed!" Wardle appreciated his down-to-earth demeanor, acknowledging the exhaustion of his busy week. "His visit means a lot to us here in Kalk Bay."
Nearby, Chene Bobha, 21, remarked to PEOPLE that William was "such a sweetheart." She relayed, "I wished Kate well, and he thanked me, saying, ‘That’s very kind.’" Another young man seized the opportunity for friendly banter, and William jokingly noted, "I’ve shaken your hand before. I never forget a face."
The event was aimed at highlighting Abalobi's contributions, an organization that collaborates with small fishing communities. They work on documenting catch data and improving livelihoods via sustainable practices. Abalobi was also a finalist for the Earthshot Prize in 2023. The group's mission includes fostering ocean stewardship while keeping consumers informed about seafood source sustainability.
On Thursday, William and his companions learned about fishing methods and technology for monitoring catches. They participated in a fish braai with the local community, including Kobus Van Der Merwe, a local chef and Abalobi supporter.
Klum expressed her excitement at the Earthshot Prize ceremony, mentioning how her deeper delve into William’s environmental projects revealed new insights. "I’m honored to learn about sustainable fishing. Our waters face overfishing and pollution. However, I want to learn and contribute," she stated.
William began the day at Simon’s Town Harbour, meeting with NSRI volunteers. He learned about their lifesaving efforts focused on safeguarding lives and livelihoods in South African waters.
This visit followed his fourth Earthshot Prize ceremony. Host Nomzamo Mbatha reflected on the memorable week, praising William as "awesome." She noted the inspiring impact of interacting with over 100 young global climate leaders from diverse backgrounds.
This ongoing program aims to support these youth through mentorship and resources. Memoirs from the Earthshot journey thrive on fresh international venues, opening the conversation on future locations for its continuation.
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