Just when the crowd thought they’d seen the last of the day’s surprises, in walked Prince Harry.
The Duke of Sussex made an unannounced appearance at the NEXUS Global Summit in New York City on June 27, leaving attendees inspired and uplifted with a message that struck right at the heart of modern leadership: move from duty to purpose.
A Personal Reflection on a Life of Service
Now 40, Harry stood in front of a room filled with young philanthropists and changemakers, sharing his personal journey.
“I was born into a life of service,” he admitted.
“At first, it felt like something I had to do. Now, it’s something I want to do.”
His words were simple, yet deeply relatable—especially for those navigating their own paths through tradition, expectation, and a desire to create genuine impact.
Redefining the ‘Why’ Behind Giving Back
Harry challenged his audience to think differently about their reasons for serving.
Rather than simply following in others’ footsteps, he urged them to ask, why? What drives you? What legacy are you building?
This theme of intentional leadership aligns closely with the values of the Archewell Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, Meghan Markle.
“Our mission is rooted in compassionate leadership,” he explained.
“It’s about committing to something greater than ourselves.” Their foundation’s ethos? Show Up. Do Good.
A Wake-Up Call for Future Leaders
Harry’s speech wasn’t just motivational—it was a direct call to action.
“Ask yourself what you want to leave behind.
Align your actions and investments with that vision,” he said.
He went further, encouraging young leaders to look beyond surface-level problems and take on the deeper, structural issues that hold communities back.
“We need to care for each other and our children’s future,” he said.
“Let’s tackle the systems, not just the symptoms.”
The Summit That’s Changing Conversations
Running from June 26 to 28, the NEXUS Global Summit gathered 350 of the world’s top young changemakers, tackling topics like mental health, climate change, impact investing, and technology for good—subjects Harry is clearly passionate about.
And while the summit was held in New York, many of the issues raised are painfully familiar in places like South Africa, where youth unemployment, mental health, and inequality are ever-present challenges.
Harry’s message resonates far beyond the room where he spoke.
Meghan Shares Her Own Joyful Update
Prince Harry wasn’t the only one making headlines in New York.
Meghan Markle recently appeared at the TIME100 Summit, where she shared a heartfelt reflection: “I’m the happiest I’ve ever been,” she said.
“To have a partner and husband who is so supportive, and healthy kids who are so joyful.
I never would have imagined at this point I would feel so happy and grateful, and I do.”
Archewell’s Global Impact and Family Life
These days, Harry and Meghan live in California with their two children—Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4.
Through their Archewell Foundation, they continue to back global projects, including work in Africa, proving that their commitment to service truly knows no borders.
A Reminder That Service Can Be a Choice
While his appearance may have been a surprise, Harry’s message was anything but unclear.
He reminded everyone that service isn’t about obligation—it’s about passion, empathy, and purpose.
And when people lead from that space, the change they make is not only deeper—it’s lasting.