The charity is currently being investigated for potential breaches of trust, misconduct, or mismanagement. The regulator specifically highlighted that the salary paid to managing director Ella Robertson McCay, who is the daughter of the charity's chief executive, Kate Robertson, was unauthorized under the charity's governing document. Kate Robertson herself was a trustee of the charity until she resigned from that role in July 2023. The commission also concluded that unauthorized bonus payments were made to Robertson.
The amount of money allocated for salaries and bonuses, which accounted for over a quarter of the total funds raised, is concerning, particularly considering that the charity did not hold any events during the COVID-19 pandemic. The high ticket prices for their events also raised questions about accessibility, making them seemingly exclusive to the upper class rather than being inclusive for everyday young individuals striving to make a positive impact.
Meghan Markle has been involved with One Young World as a counselor since 2014, continuing to work with and support a number of One Young World ambassadors, especially those advocating for equal rights for women and girls. However, the recent revelations have raised doubts about the organization's fundraising practices and the allocation of funds, suggesting potential financial impropriety.
Following inquiries from The Mail on Sunday, the Charity Commission announced the opening of a Regulatory Compliance case to investigate concerns regarding remuneration at One Young World. There have been rumors circulating about the possibility of the Invictus Games Foundation being the next organization to be investigated. These incidents highlight the questionable practices that exist within the charity industry, where some ventures serve as platforms for personal gain and public relations rather than genuine philanthropy.
Furthermore, it is essential to examine the Sussex Squad, a group fundraising for the couple's invisible children. While articles claim that Meghan and Harry donated the funds, there are no records of it in their IRS forms. The financial transactions surrounding the fundraisers for their children's birthdays and other charitable causes need to be scrutinized for transparency and accountability.
These developments shed light on the need for a thorough investigation into the financial practices and global exposure of these individuals and organizations involved in alleged financial irregularities. It is crucial to ensure the integrity of charitable ventures and hold them accountable for their actions.