Princess Alexandra of Kent: a history of royal service and social activism

Princess Alexandra of Kent, a cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, has maintained a long career of royal service and social activism. Born on December 25, 1936, she is the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Kent.

She achieved several historical milestones, including becoming the first British princess to attend a common school when she enrolled at Heathfield School in 1947. At age 11, she served as a bridesmaid at the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten.

Her professional interests have focused heavily on healthcare and social welfare. After studying music and French in Paris, she received nursing training at Great Ormond Street Hospital in 1957. This background has informed her extensive philanthropic work, including her roles as co-president of Cancer Research UK and her long-standing leadership with Sightsavers, an organization dedicated to preventing blindness and supporting the visually impaired.