Megan Markle is stepping into the business world with her new brand, American Riviera Orchard, which emphasizes sustainability and artisanal products.
However, this venture has quickly become the focal point of intense media scrutiny.
Critics have been swift to predict its downfall, pointing to reported internal challenges like difficulties in securing a CEO and crafting a solid financial strategy.
Yet, much of the criticism seems more personal than professional, targeting Markle herself instead of offering an unbiased assessment of her brand’s potential.
This harsh media treatment reflects a broader societal trend where influential women, particularly those who defy traditional roles, often find themselves under attack.
The vitriol directed at Markle echoes historical patterns reminiscent of witch hunts, where independent women—especially those who owned property or held significant resources—were targeted for their perceived threat to patriarchal norms.
In medieval Europe, many women accused of witchcraft were landowners or had control over wealth, making them vulnerable to persecution.
Their economic independence was seen as a challenge to male authority, leading to their demonization.
Fast forward to today, and Markle, a woman of influence forging her own path, is facing similar disproportionate criticism as she seeks to establish a brand that connects with nature and land.
The parallels between Markle’s media treatment and the historical demonization of powerful women are striking.
Just as women were once accused of witchcraft out of fear of their autonomy, Markle’s ventures are often met with skepticism rooted in discomfort with her independence and success.
Her focus on sustainability and artisanal products, while empowering, is framed by critics as risky, revealing a persistent bias against women who dare to step outside conventional boundaries.
Markle’s experience with American Riviera Orchard not only highlights the ongoing societal discomfort with powerful women but also underscores a historical pattern of undermining those who wield economic power.
The media’s eagerness to cast doubt on her efforts often stems from unfounded fears rather than a fair evaluation of her work’s merit.
On another front, Prince Harry recently made headlines during his visit to South Africa, where he participated in a heartfelt gathering around a campfire.
His message was clear: there’s a pressing need for those in positions of power to genuinely listen to marginalized communities and take action based on their concerns.
This isn’t just a casual remark; it’s a call to arms for leaders to engage with the voices of the underrepresented, particularly in regions like Africa where he has deep personal ties.
Harry’s insistence that “people need to start listening” serves as a challenge to decision-makers who often create policies without adequate input from those affected.
In a world grappling with inequality, poverty, and health crises like HIV-AIDS, he argues that real change can only occur when leaders prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations.
During his trip, Harry reconnected with his philanthropic work through Sentebale, the charity he co-founded in 2006, which focuses on supporting children in Lesotho, Botswana, and Malawi impacted by HIV.
His dedication to these communities reflects his long-standing commitment to addressing health disparities, particularly among youth—a cause close to his heart.
Harry’s connection to Africa runs deep.
His time spent in Lesotho during a gap year in 2004 profoundly influenced his humanitarian efforts.
This personal history not only aligns with his mother, Princess Diana‘s, advocacy for HIV awareness in the 1990s but also fuels his ongoing dedication to the continent’s challenges.
As Harry navigates the complexities of his public life post-royalty, his South African visit stands as a reaffirmation of his commitment to meaningful causes.
Despite facing criticism for his and Markle’s departure from royal duties, he continues to maintain a significant presence in global charitable efforts.
Beyond Sentebale, Harry’s mission in Africa emphasizes the urgent need for global solidarity in tackling health inequities.
With Southern Africa being one of the hardest-hit regions by HIV-AIDS, his advocacy is crucial in ensuring these issues remain on the global agenda.
Ultimately, Harry’s call for more listening transcends mere rhetoric; it’s a rallying cry for action.
He urges international leaders to amplify local voices and collaborate on sustainable solutions, reminding us all of the importance of compassion and community engagement in addressing systemic issues.