Meghan Markle, who is settling into royal life quite nicely, will be a patron of four charities in her lifelong role as Duchess of Sussex, Kensington Palace announced Thursday.
The former “Suits” actress will take over two patronages from the queen, including the National Theatre (a perfect match for the former Hollywood star) and the Association of Commonwealth Universities, which offers scholarships and “life-changing educational opportunities,” Kensington Palace said in a statement.
The duchess also will work to support Smart Works, a charity that helps unemployed women with interview preparation and styling sessions (complete with free clothing), as well as with Mayhew, an international animal welfare charity.
“The Duchess is delighted to become Patron of both national and grassroots organisations that are part of the fabric of the UK, and is very much looking forward to working with them to bring wider public attention to their causes,” the palace said.
“Her Royal Highness feels she can use her position to focus attention on, and make a particular difference to these organisations and, more widely, the sectors they each represent.”
The duchess already has privately visited many charities during her time in the U.K., the palace said. Markle stopped by Smart Works on Thursday for her first public appearance at the organization.
During her visit, the duchess spoke with women and volunteers who have benefited from Smart Works, and she helped style some who were there:
Meghan wore an Oscar de la Renta trench coat and a $218 black, “Eliza” maternity dress from Hatch during the visit, according to People.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expecting their first child together in spring.