Private visits are almost never reported in the press. All royals do ‘behind the scenes’ research. Just yesterday, Camilla Tominey was talking about Kate making visits to patronages that aren’t reported. It’s pretty par for the course.
Meghan is following in the tried and true practices of royals who have come before her.
Right, all the royals get involved with the patronages they support and make every effort to be as hands-on as possible. Princess Anne is certainly a very hard-working role model, and so is Prince Charles. But Meghan too in such a short period of time has brought her own brand of hard work ethic, and she's been setting an impressive pace. Just as Kate brought a new and welcome presence and ambiance to the royals, Meghan is also bringing new and positive attention to this ancient family and institution. IMO, it's all good, despite the recent negativity in the tabloids.
It's always important how a person responds to outside pressures and stresses. As far as I can see Meghan is doing fine. She seems focused on what matters: her marriage, her pregnancy, the patronages she will be supporting, planning for her new home, and settling in/ fitting in with her new family. She's had an amazing year, and she's stood strong against the negative pressures.
... I was hoping she would announce a few more, but perhaps she will announce more over the next month or so...
I believe it was stated on KP Twitter and on Emily Andrews' Twitter that DoS Meghan would be announcing more patronages in the coming months.
Another engagement announced...
The Duchess of Sussex will visit @TheMayhew on Wednesday 16th January.
Her Royal Highness will meet staff, volunteers and beneficiaries, and hear more about the animal welfare charity’s various initiatives, from community engagement to international projects.
I'm so glad to see Meghan involved with this wonderful animal charity. I too love animals, and I feel a connection to her in that way.
I think it's a bit odd to question how suitable or unsuitable these patronages are for Meghan, but re the National Theatre and ACU, The Queen herself chose Meghan to continue after herself, so that should end the discussion as who should be the patron of them. Jmho, of course.
Indeed. I believe HM the Queen, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, among others, have gotten to know Meghan well by now, and thus have no qualms about her abilities. Meghan conducted herself beautifully and with flying colors during the South Pacific tour. And everyone can see how well Meghan has handled the negative press from all sides -- mostly by not engaging, and not allowing the noise to distract her from being focused.
And as you say, the Queen has spoken.
BTW, I'm happy that she has these as her patronages. I think in time, she will add more. I think starting small and increasing as her interests increase is a good thing and a great fit for her. It was lovely seeing her interact with the women today. From first hand experience, coaching for interviews is very important. There is only so much "googling" you can do to figure out what to wear, how to approach, body language and what to say in an interview. It's best to have someone help to walk you through it. It also helps to set up mock interviews.
I agree. I am familiar with similar groups in the U.S. There's an organization called Dress for Success that began in the U.S. many years ago. It is now operating worldwide:
https://dressforsuccess.org/ As the Smart Works charity has pointed out, so many women who were unable to find work have been helped through counseling from Smart Works volunteers. The statistics are impressive and speak volumes.
As someone mentioned earlier, the guidance, coaching, stylist and wardrobe help fosters confidence and a feeling of well-being in these women. Some of the quotes by the women who were helped today also show the importance of the work this charity provides. Meghan was asked for specific advice, and her words of inspiration were posted on Twitter by one of the royal journalists.