The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, made a memorable final stop in Cali, Colombia, on August 18, marking the conclusion of their impactful tour.
This visit, characterized by cultural engagement and a strong focus on social justice, centered around uplifting Afro-Colombian women, showcasing the couple’s commitment to meaningful causes.
Cali, known for its vibrant atmosphere filled with salsa rhythms and lively street festivities, welcomed the royal couple with enthusiasm.
As they arrived, locals lined the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the Sussexes.
The excitement in the air was palpable, reflecting the community’s warm embrace of their distinguished guests.
A significant highlight of their visit was a forum held at the Historic Municipal Theater, dedicated to supporting Afro-Colombian women.
Meghan took center stage, delivering a keynote speech that resonated with the audience.
Known for her advocacy work, she used this platform to shed light on the challenges faced by Afro-Colombian women, drawing parallels to her own experiences.
Meghan looked effortlessly chic in a white sleeveless blouse paired with a vibrant skirt, radiating confidence as she spoke.
Prince Harry stood by her side, dressed casually in a light blue shirt, while they shared the stage with Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Marquez—the first Black woman to hold that position in the country.
Throughout the forum, both Harry and Meghan were engaged, attentively listening to the discussions and following along with translations of the panelists’ remarks.
Meghan’s connection with the topics was evident; she nodded in agreement during key points, showing her genuine interest in the issues being discussed.
When it was her turn to address the crowd, Meghan captivated attendees not just with her powerful words but also by speaking in Spanish, a language she is still mastering.
Her effort to communicate in the local tongue was met with enthusiastic applause, highlighting her commitment to connecting with the audience.
In her speech, Meghan took a moment to honor her daughter, Princess Lilibet Diana, and her mother, Doria Ragland.
She expressed pride in Lilibet, noting how she has already begun to find her voice, crediting her mother as a significant source of inspiration in her life.
The forum was just one of the many engagements the couple participated in during their whirlwind Colombian tour.
Later that day, they were set to meet with young people from the Pacific region, continuing their mission to inspire and engage local youth.
Their visit to Colombia was initiated by Vice President Francia Marquez, who felt compelled to invite the Sussexes after being moved by their story as depicted in their Netflix documentary, “Harry and Meghan.”
During a press conference, Marquez emphasized the significance of Meghan’s visit, stating that it would empower women globally.
As the four-day tour neared its end, the impact of Harry and Meghan’s visit was clear.
With a full security detail ensuring their safety, the couple navigated their quasi-royal tour with the grace and purpose that has defined their public engagements since stepping back from official royal duties in early 2020.
Their time in Colombia was filled with meaningful interactions and cultural exchanges, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to social causes, particularly those related to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
As they prepare to leave South America, the legacy of their visit will likely inspire continued dialogue and efforts surrounding the important issues they highlighted.
