Prince William has opened up about the challenges of balancing his home and work life, describing it as the “hardest year in my life”. His recent solo journey to South Africa is being interpreted by many as an indication that the Prince is stepping into a new chapter in his life.

Since taking on the role of the Prince of Wales two years ago when his father ascended to the throne, William has now signified his return to Royal duties. During the trip, he celebrated the progress of the 2024 Earthshot Prize awards, which took place in Cape Town. While there, he distributed five £1million prizes for innovations that address serious environmental issues.

This also marked the first time the event ventured into Africa. Aides suggest that this trip highlights William’s advance into a fresh era of leadership.

Furthermore, over the last year, William introduced Homewards, an assertive five-year mission aiming to combat homelessness. Together with his wife Kate’s fervent work to raise awareness about the significance of early childhood development, these initiatives are firmly establishing the foundation of their future endeavours, reports the Mirror.

When asked if he was enjoying the added responsibility and freedom in his new role, he replied: “It’s a tricky one. Do I like more responsibility? No. Do I like the freedom that I can build something like Earthshot, then yes. And that’s the future for me. It’s very important with my role and my platform, that I’m doing something for good.”

“That I’m helping people’s lives and I’m doing something that is genuinely meaningful. So, the Earthshot is a culmination if you like all that put together. But it takes a lot of work; meetings, people coming in, a lot of chatting and phone calls, letters, all trying to sort of make the Earthshot get to being the best possible entity it can be.”

William confessed that his duties had been a source of comfort during difficult times. Although he appeared relaxed this week, he admitted to struggling with balancing his work and home life, saying: “I couldn’t be less relaxed this year. It’s more a case of just crack on and you’ve got to keep going. I enjoy my work and I enjoy pacing myself and keeping sure that I have got time for my family too.”

During his visit, William met inspiring young individuals from townships who were using sports to lift themselves out of poverty, as well as entrepreneurs, environmentalists, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

He also joined supermodels Heidi Klum and Winnie Harlow, who presented awards, on a boat tour of the picturesque fishing village of Kalk Bay.