Meghan Markle stepped into the spotlight for a meaningful solo engagement, bringing warmth and community spirit to the start of the festive season. The Duchess of Sussex, on Saturday, joined Afghan women at Venice Beach, California, as part of the Southern California Welcome Project, an initiative aimed at supporting resettled women from Afghanistan.
The event was hosted at Our Place, a cookware brand founded by Shiza Shahid, where the women received new kitchenware as gifts for the upcoming holiday season. Organized in collaboration with Mina’s List, an organization dedicated to empowering women in human rights fields, the gathering radiated joy and gratitude. The women shared their stories with Meghan, fostering connections in a safe and welcoming environment.
Following the event, the office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex released official photographs and a heartfelt message detailing the occasion.
“In celebration of Thanksgiving, Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, and The Archewell Foundation hosted a heartfelt dinner for the Southern California Welcome Project,” the statement read.
“This initiative, led by the partner organization Mina’s List, has spent the past year building community through storytelling and creating a safe space for women who have resettled in the U.S. from Afghanistan.”
Meghan reflected on the evening, describing how the group shared a meal that encouraged “open conversation centered on gratitude and resilience.” She expressed deep appreciation to the attendees for sharing their personal experiences and cultural stories, emphasizing the importance of fostering such connections.
The Duchess concluded her message with a reaffirmed commitment to empowering women and building a sense of unity. “By uplifting women and fostering community through shared experiences, we reinforce the importance of unity and support during challenging times,” she stated.
This heartwarming solo engagement followed Prince Harry’s return to the U.S. after a three-day visit to Vancouver, Canada. His trip, part of the promotional campaign for the 2025 Invictus Games, highlighted the couple’s ongoing dedication to meaningful causes on both sides of the border.
Meghan’s efforts in Venice Beach reflect her passion for community-building and her role as a champion for women, offering a timely reminder of the power of connection and support during the holiday season.
