Students Inspired by Global Humanitarian Leader at Prince Philip Memorial Lecture
Friday 14 February 2026
At this year’s Prince Philip Memorial Lecture, students were inspired by global humanitarian leader Harpinder ‘Pin’ Collacott, who shared reflections from a career spent tackling some of the world’s most complex challenges. Her message encouraged students to lead with compassion, stay curious and recognise the importance of using their education and abilities in service of others.
One of the most prestigious lecture events in the Gordonstoun calendar is the Prince Philip Memorial Lecture. This annual event is held in honour of HRH Prince Philip and his lifelong commitment to service. In keeping with both the Duke’s legacy and Gordonstoun’s ethos, the lectures explore themes of global service, international understanding and community action.
This year, students had the privilege of welcoming global humanitarian leader Harpinder ‘Pin’ Collacott to Gordonstoun.
A Career Dedicated to Service
Pin has spent more than two decades working across some of the world’s most challenging environments, addressing poverty, conflict and humanitarian crises. Her career has taken her from the United Nations war crimes tribunals in West Africa to senior leadership roles across Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States. As Chief Executive of Development Initiatives and previously Executive Director for Europe at Mercy Corps, she has worked with governments, charities and international organisations to drive meaningful and lasting change.
Central to Pin’s message was the idea that compassion requires action, something everyone at Gordonstoun can relate to – with compassion, challenge and service underpinning our school’s ethos.
“Compassion begins when we refuse to look away,” she told students, reflecting on the moments that have defined her own path. She spoke movingly about the influence of her family, describing the way in which her parents and grandparents have shown her what service looks like in everyday life.
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