Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, radiated a palpable sense of relief and empowerment during her recent visit to Colombia, a stark contrast to the experiences she shared during her time within the British royal family. Her visit, particularly her participation in the Afro Women and Power Conference in Cali, offered a space of acceptance and belonging that she openly acknowledged as deeply impactful.

Markle’s comments, delivered with a genuine warmth and sincerity, highlighted the profound significance of representation and its impact on individual self-worth.

She eloquently articulated how seeing individuals who share one’s background in positions of power can inspire confidence and self-belief, dismantling limiting beliefs and fostering a sense of possibility. She specifically acknowledged the powerful example set by Francia Marquez, Colombia’s first Black vice-president, as a source of inspiration and hope for countless individuals.

During the panel discussion, Markle shared a deeply personal reflection, revealing how she felt “liberated” to be herself in Colombia, a place where she felt comfortable in her own skin and surrounded by people who embraced her authentic self. This sense of liberation, she explained, stemmed from the welcoming and accepting atmosphere she encountered, a stark contrast to the pressures and scrutiny she faced within the British royal family.

She also took the opportunity to praise her husband, Prince Harry, for his unwavering commitment to empowering women, emphasizing the crucial role men play in actively supporting women’s voices and contributions.

Markle highlighted the work they do together through their Archewell Foundation, particularly their commitment to ensuring young girls feel heard and valued, fostering a sense of agency and self-worth from a young age.

Markle’s comments resonate deeply in the wake of her highly publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey, where she revealed the British royal family’s concerns about the skin color of her son, Archie. This incident, along with the denial of a title and security for Archie, highlighted the systemic racism and prejudice that Meghan and Harry faced within the institution, a stark contrast to the welcoming and inclusive environment they found in Colombia.

Her visit to Colombia, therefore, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation, acceptance, and the transformative power of feeling seen and valued for who you truly are. It offered a glimpse into a world where one can embrace their authentic self, free from the constraints of societal expectations and prejudice.

Markle’s words, imbued with both personal experience and a deep commitment to social justice, served as a powerful call for creating a world where everyone feels empowered to live their truth and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive future.