Queen Máxima has shared a last-minute update about her daughter, Princess Ariane, which puts an end to all the theories. Thanks to this information, what many were speculating about the youngest of the Orange family's future is now confirmed. For Ariane, September has begun with a new plan that everyone will witness.
The princess is the youngest daughter of Queen Máxima and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. She reached adulthood this past April and, as happens in European monarchies, it is time to make decisions. In her case, Ariane has decided to follow in her sisters' footsteps under the guidance of Máxima of the Netherlands.
Queen Máxima confirms Princess Ariane's new direction
Of Queen Máxima's three daughters, Princess Ariane is perhaps the least known. Since she is the youngest, her presence at official events is overshadowed by other members of the Dutch Royal House. However, a last-minute update puts the princess in the spotlight and puts her on par with her sisters and other European royals.
Queen Máxima has just confirmed that Princess Ariane, who turned 18 in April, will take a gap year. With this information, Máxima acknowledges the rumors about her daughter's academic future and how she has chosen to postpone her entry into university.
Given these circumstances, the young woman has decided to take a break after earning her International Baccalaureate diploma this summer. The official information from the Royal Palace confirms that, after her graduation, Princess Ariane will begin a gap year to reflect on her next academic stage. Although this has come as a surprise to many, this break is a choice that follows in her older sisters' footsteps.
Queen Máxima trusts that this time will help the princess define her future and her interests. Taking a gap year after reaching adulthood is a very common practice among European royals. In fact, in Spain, Irene Urdangarin decided to postpone university to explore other alternatives.
Queen Máxima's plan during Princess Ariane's gap year
While taking a gap year has connotations of relaxation and self-discovery, for Princess Ariane it will not be entirely so. It is true that these months will help her define what she really wants to do, but she will have to fulfill certain obligations.
This decision has a clear impact: it will clearly increase her visibility at institutional events. During this gap year, Princess Ariane will have more availability to attend official events. Queen Máxima has confirmed this, as she already anticipates the princess's presence at institutional events.
In fact, her first appearance will be on September 16 at the Joint Session of the States General. The entire Royal Family will attend the Royal Theater in The Hague to preside over the event of great institutional importance.
Her temporary step back from the classroom doesn't mean less public responsibility. On the contrary: Princess Ariane will have more opportunities to participate in representative events and ceremonies, which allows the public to see her more. Indeed, this year off offers Queen Máxima a window to introduce the princess more frequently in official activities.
Whenever Queen Máxima has spoken about her daughters, she has done so showing her unconditional support. In this case, the sovereign accepts Ariane's decision and offers her the opportunity to explore her role in the Dutch monarchy.
With more free time, Princess Ariane will be able to participate in cultural, social, or philanthropic initiatives. She will be able to dedicate herself to volunteer work or explore projects she has always wanted to get involved in. Without a doubt, the perfect balance between obligation and vocation.