The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have made quite an impression during their ongoing visit to Colombia.
Arriving in the historic port city of Cartagena on the third day of their trip, the couple has been warmly welcomed by locals eager to showcase their rich cultural heritage.
This visit is part of what many are calling a quasi-royal tour, highlighting their commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation.
Their itinerary included a stop at the Escuela Tambores de Cabildo, a renowned drum school dedicated to keeping the tradition of African drumming alive.
Founded by Rafael Ramos, this school serves as a cultural beacon for the community, focusing on educating young people about traditional African drumming—a practice deeply rooted in Cartagena’s Afro-Colombian heritage.
The couple’s visit underscored the importance of such institutions in maintaining cultural identity amid modernization.
Upon their arrival, Harry and Meghan were treated to vibrant performances by the students, showcasing their talent and dedication to preserving their cultural roots.
Following the performances, the couple engaged in meaningful discussions with community members about the significance of cultural preservation in Cartagena.
These conversations highlighted the city’s deep Afro-Colombian roots and the necessity of celebrating these traditions.
However, body language expert Judy James noted a noticeable contrast in the couple’s demeanor during their visit.
While Meghan appeared poised and confident, often taking the lead with her trademark smile, Prince Harry seemed somewhat awkward and disconnected.
This shift in dynamics raised eyebrows, as the couple typically shares the spotlight evenly during public engagements.
James pointed out that Harry’s body language fluctuated between moments of joy and discomfort, suggesting he might still be adjusting to his new role outside the traditional royal framework.
Since stepping back from official duties in 2020, Harry has been navigating a different kind of public engagement, which may explain his more reserved demeanor during this outing.
Despite these observations, Harry did manage to leave a positive impression.
As they departed the school, he was seen waving and smiling, demonstrating his efforts to connect with the community.
Later in the day, the couple planned to visit a village with significant historical ties to Africa, further emphasizing their commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.
This particular visit holds personal significance for Meghan, who revealed in a 2022 episode of her podcast, “Archetypes,” that she is 43% Nigerian.
Discovering her ancestry has played a pivotal role in shaping her public engagements, allowing her to forge deeper connections with her heritage.
During a visit to Nigeria earlier this year, she referred to the country as “my country,” reflecting her newfound understanding of her roots.
The couple’s Colombian tour began with an invitation from Vice President Francia Marquez, and it has generated widespread interest.
Their focus on social media and cultural issues has drawn attention not only because of their royal status but also due to their advocacy for social causes.
On Sunday, they are expected to continue their tour in Cali, where they will attend a forum on Afro-Colombian women in power.
Throughout their visit, Harry and Meghan have been accompanied by a full security detail, ensuring their safety as they engage with various communities across Colombia.
Although they no longer undertake official royal duties, their presence continues to captivate audiences and reinforces their dedication to causes they are passionate about.
As the couple continues their tour, it will be fascinating to see how they navigate their roles and the impact they have on the communities they visit.
Their journey through Colombia is not just about royal appearances; it’s a testament to their ongoing commitment to social justice and cultural appreciation.
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