Part of the proceeds from the gala will go towards supporting Ocares, the community service arm of Umu Igbo Unite. Participants who donate to Ocares will receive complimentary tickets, while regular tickets are priced at $55 and VIP tickets at $99. However, Meghan Markle's involvement comes with specific requirements and demands. Sources close to WME staff reveal that she has urged her agency to secure her role as the host or speaker at the event. In addition to free admission for her mother, Doria, and Prince Harry, Meghan has requested a hefty fee of $1,000 for one night of hosting, despite showing no intention of contributing to Ocares.
While it's speculated that some proceeds from the event may eventually be donated to charity, Meghan's insistence on being compensated raises eyebrows. Critics argue that her sudden embrace of her Nigerian heritage seems opportunistic, especially considering her upbringing primarily by her white father and her light skin. They accuse her of exploiting her mixed-race identity for personal gain while disregarding the African-American branch of her family. Some even question the authenticity of her claims, pointing out inconsistencies in her actions and public persona. Despite her assertions of being proud of her African heritage, skeptics argue that Meghan's motivations appear self-serving and insincere.