Smart Works stands as a beacon of support, offering interview training and clothing to empower women seeking employment opportunities and a fresh start in their careers. This charity has made a significant impact, positively transforming the lives of countless women throughout the UK. With a dedicated team of 300 trained volunteers operating from two London offices and additional centers in Edinburgh, Manchester, Reading, Birmingham, and Newcastle, Smart Works has expanded its reach far and wide.
Meghan's statement conveyed warm congratulations to the entire Smart Works community for their remarkable decade-long journey of transforming lives. She emphasized that Smart Works provides far more than just outfits; it extends a hand of care, inspiration, and empowerment. Meghan shared her personal experiences and mentioned the unforgettable smiles that light up women's faces when they receive the Smart Works experience, which sets them on a path they might never have envisioned.
Meghan praised Smart Works for investing in the future of women and, by extension, the world. She expressed profound gratitude to all those who make this vital work possible on a daily basis. Even though she now resides across the pond, she celebrated Smart Works' accomplishments and wished them another successful decade ahead.
Regarding Meghan's recent contributions to Smart Works, she first visited the organization on January 10, 2019, during her last day as a royal on March 31, 2020. In 2021, the Archewell Foundation, founded by Meghan and Prince Harry, raised questions as it reportedly did not donate any funds to Smart Works. The absence of financial support from the patron raised eyebrows.
However, Meghan's commitment to the charity can be seen through her efforts in the past. In 2019, she launched a limited edition clothing range to benefit Smart Works, featuring items like a £19.50 dress from Marks and Spencers, a £109 John Lewis tote bag, a £120 shirt from her designer friend Misha Nonoo, and a £199 jacket and £120 trousers, both from Jigsaw. In 2022, Meghan announced a new partnership with the accessories brand Kiana, which generously donated 500 tote bags to the charity.
Yet, it's worth noting that a recent anonymous claim suggests that Meghan declined multiple invitations to attend Smart Works Gala events in person, citing her reluctance to visit the UK and face potential public scrutiny and backlash. This has raised questions about her level of engagement as a patron.
The situation raises interesting discussions about Meghan's role as a patron and her relationship with the UK. Some speculate that her recent efforts to engage with the UK media might be a strategic move to regain favor or relevance in the UK or the British royal family's eyes. It remains to be seen how her association with Smart Works and her involvement with charitable activities in the UK will evolve in the future.
