Meghan Markle’s purported volunteering stint at a teen charity in Alena, California, raises more questions than it answers.
What truly irritates me about this situation is the glaring lack of authenticity behind the narrative. Volunteering, as many of us know, involves genuine effort—rolling up one’s sleeves, connecting with the community, and providing meaningful support. It’s not just about showing up but actively engaging in the work. Yet, in this case, what we are presented with is a series of polished, strategically taken photos. These images, featuring Meghan prominently with a branded bag in tow, lack the hallmarks of true charitable involvement.
Where are the candid shots of her handing out supplies, conversing meaningfully with those in need, or engaging in the actual work? These elements, which define volunteering, are conspicuously absent. Instead, the focus is on carefully posed moments that serve more as a marketing campaign than an act of service. This consistent pattern of product placement and choreographed appearances leads to a troubling question: Is this truly about helping others, or is it about maintaining an image?
Contrast this with the charitable efforts of the Princess of Wales, Catherine. When Catherine visits charities, the spotlight shifts to the cause. Her interactions are heartfelt, her participation genuine, and her presence adds value to the work being done. Catherine embodies what it means to serve with purpose and humility, always placing the mission above herself. Meghan’s approach, by comparison, feels more like a Hollywood production, focused on her image rather than the impact of the cause.
The absence of raw, unfiltered moments of Meghan genuinely connecting with people is telling. If there were even one photo of her actively volunteering, you can bet her PR team would have amplified it across all media. Instead, we are left with a “charitable appearance” that seems designed more for optics than for tangible outcomes. This is particularly disheartening when compared to the work of real volunteers who dedicate themselves to making a difference without fanfare or designer accessories.
The timing of this event also raises eyebrows. While senior royals like King Charles and Princess Catherine are quietly dealing with personal challenges and fulfilling their duties, Meghan’s appearances come off as publicity stunts rather than genuine acts of service. It’s difficult to ignore the juxtaposition between Catherine’s recovery from surgery and Meghan’s choreographed photo ops. One approach speaks of dedication to duty, while the other seems more concerned with staying in the public eye.
Furthermore, using a teen charity as a backdrop for publicity is problematic on many levels. Vulnerable young people deserve authentic support and mentorship, not to be turned into extras in someone’s PR strategy. True engagement with such a cause would involve ongoing support, meaningful contributions, and a focus on their needs, not on one’s personal brand. This is where Meghan’s actions fall woefully short.
Reflecting on the behavior of other members of the royal family adds perspective. Take Princess Anne, for example, who has been consistently involved in charitable work for decades. She doesn’t seek attention, nor does she stage her appearances. Her service is quiet, steadfast, and impactful—an example of genuine dedication. Meghan’s actions, in contrast, come across as a calculated effort to project an image rather than to make a difference.
This pattern of behavior not only undermines the credibility of her own actions but also harms the broader perception of celebrity involvement in charitable causes. Genuine volunteers and charities deserve better. They need partners who are there for the long haul, contributing meaningfully and consistently. Meghan’s approach, unfortunately, seems to dilute the value of charitable work, making it appear as though it’s only worthwhile if it comes with a photo op or branding opportunity.
Ultimately, this narrative highlights a broader issue: the trivialization of charity in favor of personal publicity. Meghan Markle’s latest appearance is a missed opportunity—a chance to show genuine involvement and commitment. Instead, it became yet another carefully choreographed moment in the Meghan Markle show. Real service isn’t about the perfect outfit, the perfect shot, or the perfect narrative; it’s about showing up, doing the work, and making a lasting difference. That’s the kind of service the world needs—and sadly, it’s the kind Meghan has yet to embrace.
