Duchess Meghan Reflects on Life Four Years After Royal Exit: “We’re Really Happy”
In a recent interview, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, expressed that she and Prince Harry are “really happy” four years after their decision to step back as senior members of the British royal family. This significant move saw them relocate their family from the United Kingdom to Montecito, California.
This past weekend, the couple embarked on a meaningful three-day trip to Nigeria at the invitation of the country’s chief of defense staff, General Christopher Musa. During their visit to the West African nation, they met with various organizations and veterans to highlight the upcoming Invictus Games. Prince Harry shared with People, “These trips are about us being able to go out and focus on the things that mean so much to us. Being on the ground is what it’s all about.”
Meghan added, “It’s really meaningful. Just being able to connect to people … that’s what makes it special.”
Although they are no longer working royals, their trip to Nigeria drew comparisons to their last visit to Africa in 2019. That visit occurred just months before they announced their royal exit. During that time, Meghan had candidly discussed the emotional toll of living under intense scrutiny and constant criticism from the British press. In a memorable conversation with ITV’s Tom Bradby, she remarked, “Thank you for asking, because not many people have asked if I’m okay”, via Mirror.
Now, Meghan seems to have emerged from that challenging period with a renewed sense of happiness and purpose. She told People, “We’re just doing great. And happy to be watching our family grow up and evolve. Of course, I’m happy. We’re really happy.”
In Nigeria, the couple engaged in a series of meaningful activities, including discussing mental health with schoolchildren, meeting injured veterans at a military hospital, and participating in a panel discussion about women in leadership. Meghan reflected on the importance of these interactions, saying, “I always reflect back on myself as a young girl and the type of inspiration that I wanted to see in other women. I hope in some small way, I can be a part of that for a lot of these young girls especially. I saw myself in them. I see the potential in all of these young girls—and, by the way, in these young boys as well.”
She continued, “It’s what we see in our own children—to give them that promise and excitement for their futures.”
As the Sussexes continue to carve out their path away from the royal family, their focus remains on the causes and activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. This recent trip to Nigeria exemplifies their commitment to making a positive impact and connecting with communities around the world.