The inaugural Royal Foundation Forum took place in London on February 28, 2018 and was attended by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
The inaugural Royal Foundation Forum took place in London on February 28, 2018 and was attended by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Under the theme `Making a Difference Together’, the event showcased the programmes initiated or run by the Foundation, including Heads Together, the Invictus Games and United For Wildlife.
Princes William and Harry set up the Foundation in 2011 as a vehicle in which to pursue their charitable interests.
In his speech, Prince William set out the aims and achievements of the charitable organisation and their vision for the future of achieving lasting change.
He said: “All of the projects have seen us working to change mindsets to make a real and lasting difference.
“And they have all seen us uniting people, forming teams and coalitions, to work to make a difference together.”
The Duchess made a short speech in which she emphasised the shared belief among the four Royal representatives in the value of focusing on the long term.
Prince Harry then made a speech in which he mentioned the Royal responsibility both in the UK and the Commonwealth.
He said: “We are proud to work on behalf of a respected institution… with that we feel a tremendous responsibility to play our part in affecting societal change for the better, both locally, throughout the Commonwealth and wherever they’ll have us.”
Prince Harry also said he was looking forward to welcoming his soon-to-be-wife into the Foundation.
In the following discussion, Meghan Markle told the Forum that she had been “working behind the scenes” so that she could “hit the ground running” following her wedding to Prince Harry in May.
She said: “We've all got that same passion to want to make a difference.”
Collaboration and working towards long-term goals were two central themes within the speeches and discussion, whilst each of the Royals and Ms Markle outlined specific areas they were interested in providing patronage to.
For Prince Harry it was sustainable tourism, sport and youth violence, whilst for Prince William it was mental health and the protection of wildlife.
The Duchess of Cambridge spoke of her desire to continue working with parents and children, and Ms Markle referenced her previous campaigning for women’s rights and empowerment.
