In a heartfelt and inspiring visit, Meghan Markle gave a group of tweens a day they won’t soon forget. On October 2, the Duchess of Sussex stopped by Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara as part of a new initiative, Social Media U. It’s a digital-wellness program created with #HalfTheStory. The program, backed by Meghan and Harry’s Archewell Foundation, aims to help young girls navigate the digital world with confidence and responsibility.
Joined by Girls Inc. CEO Stephanie J. Hull and Larissa May, founder of #HalfTheStory, are both aware of online harassment. Meghan shared her own experiences with it. In a candid discussion, she revealed, “I was one of the most bullied people in the world.” The raw confession hit the girls hard. They waved emoji signs and discussed how social media affected them emotionally.
Teens designed the curriculum. It promotes creativity and connection in the digital age. It also encourages screen-free socializing. Meghan’s presence in the room, combined with her vulnerability, made the conversation even more impactful. “With Stephanie and Meghan, we talked about what it really means to grow up in this digital age,” May told Vanity Fair.
The program is expanding across the U.S. and Canada. This is due to partnerships with the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation and Melinda French Gates’s Pivotal Ventures. Meghan’s commitment to empowering young people continues to shine, with her involvement at Girls Inc. marking yet another step in her advocacy for digital wellness.
#MeghanMarkle sat on these photos for 9 days to coincidentally release them the DAY AFTER #PrincessCatherine’s first post-chemo engagement. Nine days. This was on Oct 2. No one can tell me she’s not fixated on her sister in law. Pathetic. #MeghanMarkleIsABully #MeghanIsTheProblem pic.twitter.com/JaWr6tK78g
— Princess CarParkle (@unreMARKLEble) October 11, 2024
Reimagining an Iconic Fashion Moment at the Children’s Hospital Gala
But Meghan Markle wasn’t done making headlines just yet. On October 5, at the CHLA Gala, she stunned again. She revamped one of her most talked-about fashion moments. It was a bold move for the Duchess.
In 2021, Meghan stole the show at the Salute to Freedom gala. She wore a fire-engine-red Carolina Herrera gown with a plunging neckline and a dramatic train. The look was a far cry from her conservative royal wardrobe, and now, in 2024, she’s made the already daring outfit even more attention-grabbing.
What TF?? That's a different kind of 'blow' for Rachel!!
— 👑 The Official Office of Cee Bee (@CeeBee_CeeBee) October 6, 2024
🤭😂😂😂pic.twitter.com/qQzyJZjoxD
The Iconic Red Gown – Reimagined
For the gala, Meghan Markle opted for a form-fitting version of the iconic dress, ditching the billowy train for a sleeker, body-con silhouette. With the plunging neckline intact, the updated gown hugged her figure, offering a modern twist on the original design. The new look turned heads on the red carpet, proving Meghan’s evolving style continues to make waves.
As she walked the red carpet, Meghan gushed about the importance of the event. “The work they do at Children’s Hospital L.A. is otherworldly,” she said. “As a mother, no one wants to be in the position where you need to go to a place like this, but if you do, there’s no better place.”
Fans and fashion critics alike marveled at her bold outfit. Many praised her for blending glamour with a deeper cause. “It’s yet another one of Meghan’s most stunning fashion moments,” a fan said on social media. Others noted that it was fitting. The Duchess chose a gown with great personal significance for such a heartfelt occasion.