The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have made quite an impression during their ongoing trip to Colombia.
Arriving in the vibrant port city of Cartagena, the couple is in the midst of what many are calling a quasi-royal tour, and the local community has welcomed them with open arms.
Their visit marks the third day of their journey, which has been filled with cultural engagements and meaningful interactions.
One of the highlights of their Cartagena visit was a stop at the Escuela Tambores de Cabildo, a distinguished drum school that plays a crucial role in preserving the rich Afro-Colombian heritage of the region.
Founded by Rafael Ramos, the school is dedicated to teaching young people the art of traditional African drumming, a practice that has deep roots in the local culture.
Upon arrival, Harry and Meghan were treated to vibrant musical performances that showcased the incredible talent of the students.
Following the performances, the couple engaged in heartfelt discussions with community members about the significance of cultural preservation in Cartagena.
The conversations underscored the importance of celebrating the city’s Afro-Colombian roots, especially in an era where modernization threatens to overshadow these treasured traditions.
However, body language expert Judy James provided some intriguing insights into the couple’s demeanor during the visit.
She noted a noticeable contrast between Harry and Meghan; while Meghan exuded confidence and grace, Harry appeared somewhat awkward and detached.
This dynamic is interesting, given that they have typically shared the spotlight equally during public engagements.
James pointed out that Meghan seemed to take the lead this time, showcasing her trademark warm smile, while Harry lingered in the background, often appearing downcast.
This shift might reflect Harry’s ongoing adjustment to his new role outside the traditional royal framework, following the couple’s decision to step back from official duties in 2020.
Despite the challenges, Harry managed to project a positive image, waving and smiling as they departed the school.
His ability to connect with the crowd, even amidst personal adjustments, suggests he is still committed to engaging with communities, albeit in a different capacity than before.
Later in the day, the couple planned to visit a village with significant historical ties to Africa, further emphasizing their dedication to uplifting marginalized communities and honoring cultural heritage.
This visit holds particular relevance for Meghan, who recently discovered her Nigerian ancestry through a genealogy test, revealing that she is 43% Nigerian.
Meghan’s connection to her African roots has been a recurring theme in her public engagements.
During a visit to Nigeria earlier this year, she referred to the country as “my country” while discussing women in leadership, highlighting her growing understanding and appreciation of her heritage.
Reflecting on her experiences, she expressed how much more meaningful her connection to Nigeria has become.
The couple’s Colombian adventure kicked off on Thursday after receiving an invitation from Vice President Francia Marquez.
Their presence has generated significant interest, not only because of their royal status but also due to their focus on social media and cultural issues that resonate with many.
Looking ahead, Harry and Meghan are set to continue their tour in Cali, a key city in the Colombian Pacific, where they will participate in a forum centered on Afro-Colombian women in power.
They are also expected to meet with young women from the Pacific region, reinforcing their commitment to empowering marginalized voices.
Throughout their travels, the Sussexes have been accompanied by a full security detail to ensure their safety as they engage with diverse communities across Colombia.
Although they no longer undertake official royal duties, their presence continues to draw considerable attention, reflecting their ongoing dedication to causes close to their hearts.
With so much happening during their Colombian tour, it’s clear that Harry and Meghan are making the most of this unique opportunity to connect with local cultures and communities.
What do you think about their journey so far?
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