Meghan Markle’s public service record is one of women’s empowerment. Each year Smart works charity uses international women’s day to raise funds for the organization and create awareness as they celebrate their amazing clients.  Meghan Markle the Duchess of Sussex was drawn to Smart Works because it reframes the idea of charity as community. It’s a network of women supporting and empowering other women in their professional pursuits. One of Meghan’s core value is women’s empowerment.

The art of connection

Smart Works patron Meghan Duchess of Sussex took time to send some words of encouragement to a few clients. Known for popularizing the power of the handwritten note, Meghan sent personal notes to select clients of Smart Works. How very thoughtful and kind.The notes gave the that extra piece of encouragement as they return to the workplace.  The extract below was from a note sent to a client who recently got a job working in the health sector:

I wanted to offer my personal congratulations on landing a new position in public health – I can’t think of anything more important right now. And I’m so pleased to know that Smart Works supported you in the lead-up to your successful job interview. -Meghan Markle Duchess of Sussex

Encouragement given to a client before an interview:

I wanted to write personally to wish you every success in your upcoming interview. While any interview can feel daunting, I know that Smart Works has enabled you with the confidence to thrive throughout the process” … “You’ll be amazing in your interview remember deep breath and be yourself.- Meghan Markle Duchess of Sussex

In February 2019 SmartWorks helped 187 women in London alone. This represents a 47% increase from 2018. Proving to be the Duchess of Influence. Smart Works dressed 27% more women this July 2019 than 2018 a boost from Meghan’s involvement as a royal patron.

Designer Misha Nonoo partnered with her best friend Smart Works patron Meghan Duchess of Sussex to develop the Smart Set. The first release of the Smart Set Tote sold out online in pre-selling before the official launch. The Smart Set Sold 10,000 items in 2 weeks. Partner Marks & Spencer’s Shares rose as much as 1.8% early Thursday in London after news of the partnership with Duchess of Sussex Smart Set. The collection was simple, polished, and elegant.  For every capsule piece purchased, one was donated to Smart Works. Ten days after the launch, enough was sold to provide the charity with a year’s worth of clothing. Nonoo, was very proud of this project.

According to  Oxfam & World Bank British women are more likely to be unemployed than men, according to statistics released in 2018 — but women’s unemployment is widespread.Women are more likely to live in poverty than men, with 122 women between the ages of 25 and 34 living in poor households for every 100 men in the same age group.SmartWorks is a very much needed charity.