During a recent trip to Nigeria, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, opened up about a sweet and meaningful moment she shared with her daughter, Princess Lilibet. The heartfelt story came as Meghan and Prince Harry wrapped up their three-day visit—marking their first international tour since stepping back from their royal roles.
A Special Mother-Daughter Connection
On May 10, Meghan and Harry visited Lightway Academy, a school in Nigeria where they spent time with a group of young kindergarteners. While there, Meghan gave the children a rare and intimate glimpse into her life as a mom. She told them about a touching conversation she recently had with her two-year-old daughter, Lilibet, who’s soon to turn three.
“Our daughter, Lili—she’s much, much smaller than you guys,” Meghan shared, smiling at the kids. Then she recounted a moment that left a lasting impression on her. “Just a few weeks ago, she was looking at me. And all she could see was the reflection in my eyes,” Meghan explained. “Then she said, ‘Mama, I see myself in you.’”
For Meghan, those simple words carried a much deeper meaning. “While she was speaking so literally, it struck me as something more profound,” Meghan reflected. “‘Yes, I see myself in you, and you see me in me.’”
Bridging Connections with Local Children
As she continued to speak with the students, Meghan made a point of connecting her family experience to the children in front of her. “When I look around this room, I see myself in all of you as well,” she said warmly.
Throughout their time at Lightway Academy, Meghan and Prince Harry joined in a variety of activities with the students, including singing, dancing, and playing games. Meghan even joked that all the hopping around during playtime was probably what made the day so much fun—since those are some of Lilibet’s favorite things to do at home.
Glimpses into Family Life
Though Meghan and Harry have worked hard to maintain a sense of privacy for their children, they occasionally offer small glimpses into their family life. Back in February, Prince Harry spoke about their two kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, during an interview on Good Morning America. He shared how quickly they’re growing and how much joy they bring to their lives.
“They both make us laugh every single day,” Harry said. “They really keep us grounded.” He added, “I’m just so grateful to be a dad.”
A Look Behind the Public Image
Meghan’s story about her conversation with Lilibet offers a rare and tender insight into the close bond she shares with her daughter. It’s moments like these that remind people of the human side of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they continue balancing life in the public eye with protecting their family’s privacy.
Their visit to Nigeria wasn’t just about formal engagements—it was about connection. Whether it was sitting on the floor playing games with kids or sharing personal stories, Meghan and Harry seemed focused on making genuine connections.
As the Sussexes continue their work and personal journey, moments like this show their dedication to building bridges, both as a family and as public figures.