Prince William continues to honour his late mother Princess Diana by championing initiatives that were close to heart. On Thursday evening (Nov. 19) the duke was on hand at an awards gala to highlight the work of a charity that helps give homeless youth hope.

Speaking at the first Centrepoint awards in London as patron of the organization, William said, "Ten years ago, Centrepoint was one of the first charities that I officially became associated with.

Prince William made a speech at the first Centrepoint awards in London on Thursday.

"During that time, I have seen the charity adapt to the challenges of tackling youth homelessness with continued optimism and enthusiasm."

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He continued, "Some young people can find themselves denied the most basic of comforts, such as a safe place to sleep, a guaranteed source of food or simply someone to turn to for advice. This can often be due to reasons beyond their control.

William also pointed out that "the impact of homelessness is not temporary."

"All too often, a person's long-term mental and physical health, education and sense of self-worth can also be at risk.

TAP TO SEE FULL GALLERYThe prince met a host of youths who have defied their troubled backgrounds.

"Ending youth homelessness remains an urgent challenge; too many in society are still unaware of just how many young people need our help."

William, 33, also met young people who have defied their troubled backgrounds to become "beacons of hope" for others, including a woman who went from living on the street to becoming a world champion power lifter.

Princess Diana was patron of the charity; pictured in 1995 raising awareness for the cause.

Since 2005, the father of two has been patron of Centrepoint, which provides a safe place to live for thousands of young people every year. Princess Diana was a patron, and took her young boys William and Harry with her on private visits to the organization's services.

William's ongoing commitment to one of the several charities supported by the late Princess of Wales was underscored when, in December 2009, he spent a night on the streets with the charity's chief executive, Seyi Obakin.