Meghan Markle's Inspiring Connection with Young Girls in Nigeria: Embracing Potential

Meghan Markle Recognized Herself in Young Girls She Visited in Nigeria: ‘I See the Potential’

KOLA SULAIMON/AFP via Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are still reminiscing about their recent visit to Nigeria. During the three-day trip earlier this month, they had the opportunity to engage with young locals.

The royal couple, Harry aged 39 and Meghan aged 42, participated in a mental health summit held in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, on May 10. They also took the time to speak with a group of Nigerian students during the event.

Meghan shared in an interview with People on Wednesday, May 15, that she sees potential in all the young girls and boys she met. The couple was in Nigeria to support their Archewell Foundation's mental health initiatives and the Invictus Games. Harry, the founding patron of the games that celebrate wounded military veterans, welcomed Nigeria to participate for the first time in 2023.

At the Lightway Academy, a coed day school, Meghan spoke to the crowd and encouraged young women to stand up for “respect, dignity, and equality.”

She expressed her belief in the audience, stating, “We believe in you. We believe in your futures.” Meghan emphasized the importance of sharing their stories and being honest with each other. She reminded them that they do not have to suffer in silence and encouraged them to prioritize their mental health by discussing their feelings openly.

Meghan Markle Recognized Herself in Young Girls She Visited in Nigeria: ‘I See the Potential’

Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for The Archewell Foundation

Harry also addressed the crowd, reassuring students that it's perfectly fine to not feel okay sometimes.

In 2022, Meghan learned about her Nigerian roots and expressed to People how she can now pass this part of her heritage down to her children. The locals even gifted Meghan and Harry a collection of books on Nigerian heritage as a token of appreciation.

“That’s such a special thing as a mother to know you can do,” she said.

Harry and Meghan are parents to son Archie, 5, and daughter Lilibet, 2, who share in Meghan’s African heritage.

Harry and Meghan visited Nigeria at the invitation of the country's Chief of Defense Staff, the highest-ranking military official. During their trip, they stopped at Lightway Academy and also met with the Chief of Defense Staff. Additionally, they visited injured service members at a local military hospital.

The couple shared with People magazine that they are excited about the prospect of more travel opportunities in the future.

Harry expressed his anticipation for traveling more in the future because the work is important. He mentioned that whether it's for the Archewell Foundation, Invictus, or any other causes they support, there will always be a need to meet the people directly involved in their work.

Editor's P/S:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent trip to Nigeria was a testament to their commitment to promoting mental health awareness and empowering young people. Their interactions with Nigerian students showcased their belief in the potential of the youth and the importance of providing them with a platform to share their experiences. Meghan's acknowledgment of her Nigerian heritage adds a personal touch to their mission, highlighting the significance of cultural identity and the role it plays in shaping one's perspective.

The couple's visit also underscores the global reach of mental health issues and the need for a collaborative approach to addressing them. Their involvement in the mental health summit and their discussions with wounded military veterans demonstrate their understanding of the challenges faced by individuals from all walks of life. By sharing their own experiences and encouraging open dialogue, Harry and Meghan are helping to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and creating a more inclusive society where people can seek help without shame or judgment.