Meghan Markle at Variety’s Power of Women event in Los Angeles on November 16, 2023.Photo:Jon Kopaloff/Variety via Getty

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attends Variety Power of Women Los Angeles presented by Lifetime at Mother Wolf on November 16, 2023 in Los Angeles, California

Jon Kopaloff/Variety via Getty

Meghan Markleis supporting a U.K. charity close to her heart.

Guests at theSmart Works' inaugural Carol Concert in London on Tuesday, Dec. 3 were welcomed with a message and a poem from their patron, the Duchess of Sussex.

“Tonight promises to be a truly magical celebration, filled with special guests and performers, and most importantly, the shared spirit of community that defines Smart Works,” Meghan wrote in the event program handed to guests on arrival, alongside mince pies and sparkling wine.

“Together we gather to honour the work and dedication of this remarkable organisation, which continues to empower women across the UK through coaching, dressing and instilling confidence on their journey to employment," her message continued.

Smart Works Carol Concert at St Marylebone Parish Church in London on December 3, 2024.Philip Panting Photography

Smart Works event at St Marylebone Parish Church in London on December 3, 2024

Philip Panting Photography

The Smart Works Carol Concert programme, Dec 3, 2024.Monique Jessen

Meghan Markle message at Smart Works event at St Marylebone Parish Church in London on December 3, 2024

Monique Jessen

Meghan Markle during a visit to Smart Works in January, 2019.Clodagh Kilcoyne - WPA Pool/Getty

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex smiles during her visit to Smart Works on January 10, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. Smart Works is one of the four organisations which she has become Royal Patron of it was announced today by Kensington Palace. The three other organisations are The National Theatre, The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and Mayhew

Clodagh Kilcoyne - WPA Pool/Getty

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Smart Works Carol Concert programme, Dec 3, 2024.Monique Jessen

Meghan Markle message at Smart Works event at St Marylebone Parish Church in London on December 3, 2024

A year after her marriage toPrince Harry, Meghan was announced as patron of Smart Works, alongside other organizations such as the National Theatre, the Association of Commonwealth Universities, and Mayhew, an animal welfare charity. Smart Works is the only charity Meghan remains affiliated with since the couple stepped back from their roles as senior working royals in 2020 and moved to the U.S.

Amidst carols and readings, the charity’s Chair, Julietta Dexter, delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude to the 700 volunteers who support Smart Works. “What happens at Smart Works is a bit like the Disney Choir, people call it the Smart Works magic moment. I actually call it love," she said.

“A client comes to us and we make her feel as comfortable as possible, there is magic in a cup of tea in a Smart Works mug with a biscuit and then we talk about clothes!” she continued.

After the initial interview dressing, clients are offered coaching, and if they get the job (63 percent do within the first month!), they are invited back to choose a capsule wardrobe.

“Over the years I’ve seen first-hand the unforgettable smile that comes across a woman’s face when she receives the Smart Works experience of care, inspiration and empowerment. Something changes for her in that moment and sets her on a path she may never have thought possible," she said.

source: people.com