Meghan Markle talked about being “one of the most bullied people in the world” during a poignant solo visit to a youth organisation in Santa Barbara, California.
The Duchess of Sussex joined a group of teenagers at Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara on October 2 for an afternoon of games and a discussion about their experience growing up in the digital age.
Meghan’s visit aimed to help with the launch of a new digital-wellness programme called Social Media U, which is brought by Girls Inc. in partnership with non-profit organisation #HalfTheStory.
The new effort is financially supported by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s charity, the Archewell Foundation, the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, and Melinda French Gates’s Pivotal Ventures
Its aim is reportedly to encourage teenage girls to socialise without screens and urge them to use technology for positive connection and creativity.
The Duchess of Sussex at Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara
Meghan looked stunning in a blue and white J.Crew shirt which she paired with a pair of wide-leg trousers, a brown leather belt by Ralph Lauren and a pair of brown suede heels by Manolo Blahnik.
She took part in the event alongside Girls Inc. CEO Stephanie J. Hull and #HalfTheStory founder Larissa May.
Ms May told Vanity Fair of the event: “We did an activity where we talked through a bunch of scenarios, and Meghan talked about being one of the most bullied people in the world.
“We had girls wave these little emoji signs and talk about how each one of these scenarios would have impacted them emotionally.
“With Stephanie and Meghan, we talked about what it really means to grow up in this digital age.”
Meghan Markle takes a group photo during the event
The visit was made public on October 11, which marks the International Day of the Girl.
The latest event also holds a special place in Meghan’s heart, as her charity’s partnership with Girls Inc. took place in 2021, the same year that in which her and Prince Harry’s daughter, Princess Lilibet was born.
The Archewell Foundation said in a statement: “This new educational initiative will equip girls with the essential tools to thrive in the digital age while fostering healthier, more balanced relationships with technology.
“The Archewell Foundation is committed to uplifting girls around the world and protecting their safety and wellness in online spaces. As we work towards digital wellbeing for all, we will continue to listen to young people and ensure that they have the tools they need to thrive.”