The Duchess of Sussex attended a milestone celebration for a UK charity that she has backed ever since she was a member of the royal family.
As Smart Works marks its tenth anniversary, Meghan wrote a heartfelt letter expressing her gratitude for everything the organisation does to assist unemployed women in need.
The 42-year-old Duchess joined Smart Works as a patron in January 2019 and continued in that capacity even after resigning as a senior royal in March 2020.
Meghan wrote: “Congratulations to the entire Smart Works community on 10 incredible years of transforming lives.” in an email expressing her gratitude. You have left a lasting impression on women all over the United Kingdom over the past ten years. These women came to you because they needed more than just an outfit; they needed someone to believe in them.”
“As I’ve stated before, you provide much more than a handout at Smart Works—you provide a hand held,” the speaker went on.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand over the years the enduring smile that appears on a woman’s face after she receives the support, motivation, and empowerment that Smart Works offers.
“At that very moment, something shifts within her, leading her down a path she never would have imagined.”
Prior to and following the announcement of her patronage, the Duchess had private meetings with clients of Smart Works at their London headquarters. In 2019, while Meghan was expecting Archie, she helped a client choose an outfit for a job interview during a public appearance.
“At Smart Works, you are investing in the future of women and, as a result, the world,” Meghan wrote as she concluded her message. I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you for making this work possible every single day. From the other side of the ocean, I’m wishing you another incredible ten years of celebration!”
In September 2019, the Duchess debuted “The Smart Set,” a unique capsule clothing line designed by Smart Works in association with Marks & Spencer, Jigsaw, John Lewis and Misha Nonoo.
Customers were able to support and empower other women and be a part of their success story by donating an item for each one they bought to the charity.
When the Duchess guest-edited British Vogue’s September issue of that year, she used the opportunity to promote the charity and its work and announced the initiative.
Prior to an interview for an internship in April 2020, she also provided video mentoring to a young woman while Smart Works modified its offerings during the pandemic’s peak.
Additionally, Meghan’s Archewell Foundation awarded the charity a grant in March 2022 to support a research project that tracks female unemployment in the UK, coinciding with the first day of Women’s History Month.
The Duchess additionally collaborated with Cuyana, an accessories brand, to donate 500 handbags to Smart Works clients.