The 2025 Earthshot Prize Awards ceremony illuminated Rio de Janeiro’s Museum of Tomorrow. It pulled together a mighty constellation of global stars, innovators and game-changing policymakers. Hosted by renowned Brazilian TV show host Luciano Huck, the event aimed to showcase sustainable solutions emerging from Brazil and draw global attention to climate action.
Prince William, the founder of the prestigious Earthshot Prize, attended the ceremony in style, re-wearing a classic Tom Ford tuxedo paired with a black tie. By recycling a velvet jacket by the same designer, he drove home his point of putting sustainability at the forefront.
Among all these notable firsts, the evening featured performances from Grammy-award winners Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes. There was palpable electricity in the air when they walked onstage. The power of their performance electrified the audience and enhanced the importance of the event.
Throughout the evening, Prince William engaged with notable figures, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Britain’s Ambassador to Brazil Stephanie Al-Qaq, and Brazilian Environment Minister Marina Silva.
With Earthshot CEO Jason Knauf and 2023 awards presenter Luciano Huck in tow, Prince William made a surprisingly breathtaking entrance. He shimmied onto the red carpet alongside performers Minogue and Mendes. Now more than ever, these stories painted a picture of the collaboration and unity that characterized the ceremony.
Kylie Minogue expressed her admiration for the Earthshot Prize, stating, “It’s a privilege and honour to be part of The Earthshot Prize in Rio – on stage with the people and the ideas that could save our planet.”
From Shawn Mendes sharing his story with Prince William during rehearsal earlier that day, the two exchanged warm hugs, marking a friendly rapport as Mendes thanked Prince William for his kindness inquiring about his mother, Karen.
The day’s theme struck a profound chord with attendees as we uplifted the power of grassroots movements to spur healing and repair to our damaged landscapes. Seu Jorge poignantly remarked, “The real heroes today are the people out there doing the work, restoring forests, cleaning rivers, and caring for the places we call home. Their work reminds us that healing the Earth begins with small acts of courage.”
Luciano Huck highlighted the significance of hosting such an important event in Brazil, saying, “It is an honour to host The Earthshot Prize in Brazil. The Prize inspires, celebrates, and proves that solutions to the planet’s greatest challenges already exist, and I am delighted to be hosting this incredible event.”
In his remarks, Prince William praised Brazil’s unique ecosystems and the fierce protectors of nature. He stated, “This region is home to some of the world’s most vital ecosystems and some of its most passionate environmental defenders.” His words were a reminder of why we need to act with urgency on climate.
