Duke and Duchess of Sussex choose 15 charities to follow on Instagram

12 Aug 2019 News

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

Credit: Mark Jones (CC)

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have chosen 15 charities and non-profit organisations from around the world that they have identified as “Forces for Change” to follow on Instagram.

The royal couple had previously used their Instagram account to ask their 9.3 million followers which organisations they should recognise, and have now chosen to follow 15 accounts. They plan to spend August following the accounts and showcasing the work that they do. 

Using their official account, they posted: “Many of you have suggested that we use this month as an opportunity to highlight lesser-known organisations and shine a light on those working hard behind the scenes that may not get the level of attention that they so rightly deserve.

“These accounts showcase those persevering at the grassroots level, connecting our global community through a shared lens of giving back and helping one another.”

The move follows the August issue of British Vogue, which was guest edited by the Duchess of Sussex and which highlighted 15 women labelled as “Forces for Change”. 

The charities chosen for their Instagram account are:

  • BeesCause 
  • Pawsitive Change 
  • Children International 
  • BlinkNow Foundation 
  • Love the Oceans 
  • Art of Hope 
  • Tiny Tickers 
  • Global Wellness Day 
  • Beyond Blue 
  • Lion Guardians 
  • Earth Day Network 
  • Plan International UK 
  • Free Wheelchair Mission 
  • Waves For Change
  • Rafiki Mwema

Many of the accounts mentioned had few Instagram followers, but the initiative has seen their followers grow.

Plan International UK’s deputy chief executive, Simon Bishop, said: “It is amazing that Meghan and Harry are giving this international platform to girls’ issues, and we are delighted to be among their Forces for Change. We know the girls we work with want to see this kind of high-profile support for achieving gender equality, and we hope the Sussexes will continue to be champions for change.”

The BlinkNow Foundation’s account said: “We are beyond grateful, and so humbled by this honor. Everything we’ve accomplished is possible because amazing supporters like you have been on this journey with us.”

Global Wellness Day’s account said: “We are truly honored to be featured among other amazing organisations”.

The royal couple also recently posted a quote from Princess Diana which said: "Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day, someone might do the same for you."

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