Meghan Markle Sends Message of Gratitude to SmartWorks Charity on Its 10th Anniversary

In a heartwarming gesture, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has reached out to the UK charity SmartWorks, which she serves as patron, to commemorate its 10th anniversary.

The former royal expressed her deep appreciation for the incredible SmartWorks community and their unwavering support in assisting unemployed women facing challenging circumstances.

Meghan's message was shared on the charity's official Instagram page.

Appointed as a patron of SmartWorks in January 2019, Meghan Markle, alongside Prince Harry, had been residing in the UK at that time.

SmartWorks is an organization that provides interview training and clothing to empower women and help them secure employment, successfully reintegrating them into the workforce.

Over the years, SmartWorks has positively impacted thousands of women across the country.

With a dedicated team of 300 trained volunteers, the charity operates from two offices in London and centers in Edinburgh, Manchester, Reading, Birmingham, and Newcastle.

The statement released by Meghan read, “Congratulations to the entire SmartWorks community on 10 incredible years of transforming lives.

For the last decade, you've made an indelible mark on women across the UK who've walked into your doors in need of more than just an outfit.

They needed someone to believe in them.

As I've said before, you provide much more than a handout.

At SmartWorks, you provide a hand held.”

Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact of the SmartWorks experience, Meghan emphasized the transformative effect it has on women's lives.

She spoke of the unforgettable smile that lights up a woman's face when she receives care, inspiration, and empowerment from SmartWorks.

This moment often becomes a catalyst, setting her on a path she may never have thought possible.

Meghan acknowledged the charity's investment in the future of women, which ultimately benefits society as a whole.

She expressed immense gratitude to all those who contribute to making this work possible day in and day out.

While reflecting on Meghan's involvement with SmartWorks, it is worth noting her previous contributions to the charity.

In 2019, according to the Daily Mail, she launched a limited edition clothing range to support SmartWorks.

The collection featured items such as a £19.50 dress from Marks and Spencers, a £109 John Lewis tote bag, a £120 shirt from her designer friend Misha Nonoo, and a £199 jacket and £120 trousers from Jigsaw.

Additionally, in 2022, Meghan announced a new partnership with the accessories brand Quijana, which generously donated 500 tote bags to the charity.

However, recent claims have raised questions about Meghan's commitment to actively participating in SmartWorks events.

A blind item suggests that she has been repeatedly asked to attend SmartWorks galas but has declined due to her aversion to personal appearances.

This raises concerns about her level of engagement as a patron.

Critics argue that if she does not wish to actively contribute, why maintain her position as the charity's patron?

They question her motives, suggesting that she seeks the glory without putting in the necessary work.

Some speculate that Meghan's disinterest in engaging with lower-profile activities in the UK stems from her desire to distance herself from the country since leaving the royal family.

Furthermore, the incident involving Meghan writing messages on bananas during a visit to a charity event has become a source of embarrassment for her.

It is believed that she wishes to avoid any reminders of the incident and fears facing criticism or backlash from the UK press should she set foot in the country again.

Interestingly, despite these reservations, Meghan has recently invested significant resources in PR campaigns targeted at the UK media.