Ella Lambert founded The Pachamama Project during her time as a languages student at the University of Bristol.

The charity aims to eradicate period poverty by providing access to safe and reusable sanitary products and by promoting menstrual health education.

Starting with home-sewn reusable “Pacha Pads,” Ella’s initiative has grown into a global movement. The Pachamama Project now hosts a network of 2,500 volunteers across 13 countries who have sewn more 160,000 reusable pads.

The pads are distributed to vulnerable communities worldwide, reaching more than 20,000 people and helping to restore health, dignity and opportunity.

Motivated by her own experiences of debilitating period pain, Ella became determined to support others.

Ella, who graduated in 2023, said: “I am extremely proud to receive recognition for my work on such a stigmatised and often overlooked issue.

“Every single one of our volunteers is changing lives and playing an integral part in our mission to end period poverty, keep girls in education, women in work and restore dignity.”

Established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, the award recognises young changemakers who inspire positive social impact and is supported by both HRH The Prince of Wales and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex.

Dr Tessy Ojo CBE, CEO of The Diana Award, praised Ella and her fellow recipients: “We warmly congratulate our new Diana Award recipients from across the world who are dedicating their time to making positive change.

"These young people demonstrate that young people have the power to change the world; a belief also held by Diana Princess of Wales. We know by receiving this honour they will inspire more young people to get involved in their communities.”