The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were honoured as Humanitarians of the Year at the Project Healthy Minds’ 3rd Annual World Mental Health Day Gala in New York City on October 9. The accolade recognised the couple’s continued efforts to champion mental health awareness and online safety through their charitable organisation, the Archewell Foundation.
The star-studded event, held at Spring Studios in Manhattan, gathered more than 500 guests from across philanthropy, media, politics and entertainment. The evening celebrated individuals and organisations driving meaningful change in the field of mental health, with the Sussexes receiving the top honour for their advocacy and impact.
Meghan speaks out about social media
During the ceremony, Meghan delivered one of the night’s most talked-about moments – a heartfelt reflection on the realities of raising children in the digital age.
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Speaking about their son Archie, six, and daughter Lilibet, four, the Duchess said their family was not yet at the stage of dealing directly with social media, but acknowledged the growing concern for parents everywhere.
“Like so many parents, we think constantly about how to embrace technology’s benefits while safeguarding against its dangers,” she said. “And that hopeful intention of separation is rapidly becoming impossible.”
Her comments struck a chord with many in the audience, reflecting a widespread anxiety about the effects of online culture on children’s mental health.
Prince Harry echoed his wife’s sentiments, calling for stronger accountability from tech companies. He said that platforms must “do more to protect children from online harm” and announced that the couple’s Archewell Foundation will expand its partnership with ParentsTogether, a non-profit organisation helping families navigate social media safely.
What Meghan wore
For the high-profile gala, Meghan opted for sleek tailoring, channelling modern evening glamour, wearing a refined black silk single-breasted jacket (€2,950) and matching palazzo trousers (€1,525) by Giorgio Armani – both repeat pieces from her wardrobe.
She completed the ensemble with a black satin La Prima clutch bag (€1,460) and asymmetric black velvet pumps (estimated €950), also by Armani. Her only new addition was a statement double-link gold chain necklace (€600) by Anine Bing, adding a subtle modern edge to the minimalist look.
Wearing her hair in a low bun and keeping her make-up fresh and understated, Meghan’s polished ensemble perfectly complemented Harry’s classic black tuxedo.
All about Archewell
The award recognised the Sussexes’ growing influence in modern philanthropy through the Archewell Foundation, which they founded in 2020 after stepping back from official royal duties. Their work spans mental health, digital equity, gender equality, and community empowerment, often using technology and media to reach younger audiences.
Archewell has partnered with organisations including World Central Kitchen, NAACP, Uplift, and the Invictus Games Foundation, supporting projects that range from mental health resources and youth leadership programmes to disaster relief efforts.
In the past year, the foundation has funded community rebuilding in Maui, Hawaii, following the devastating wildfires, and provided aid for earthquake-affected regions in Turkey and Syria. Its most recent initiative, The Parents’ Network, offers practical guidance to families tackling the challenges of online safety and digital wellbeing.
According to Archewell’s 2024 Impact Report, the foundation has supported more than 100,000 young people worldwide through mental health initiatives and helped develop a digital responsibility framework aimed at reducing online harm. Its collaboration with the Responsible Technology Youth Fund continues to nurture youth-led projects promoting a safer, kinder internet.
Outside their foundation work, Meghan has co-produced a podcast exploring women’s experiences in public life, while Harry remains a vocal advocate for veterans’ mental health through the Invictus Games, which will next take place in Vancouver and Whistler, Canada, in 2025.
Glitzy gala
Among the guests filling the room were an array of public figures from media, wellness and the world of advocacy. Carson Daly served as the evening’s host, while Katie Couric, Deepak Chopra, author Jonathan Haidt and Rich Kleiman were also reported to be in attendance. Musical performances came from Lukas Graham and Alexander Stewart, adding a cultural element to the philanthropic gathering.