Meghan Markle’s words for her mom before her birthday month

Before Prince Harry heads off to New York for his solo trip, Meghan Markle made sure to give a shoutout to her mom Doria Ragland’s 68th birthday in style. The mother-daughter duo has always shared a special bond, and Meghan Markle’s recent tribute to Doria during an event in Colombia only highlights their connection.

The Duchess of Sussex, speaking at a forum for Afro-Colombian women, praised her mom for being a guiding force in her life, teaching her the importance of kindness, love, and using one’s voice. Unsurprisingly, Doria’s influence runs deep, especially as Meghan Markle navigates her own public life.

“I find inspiration in the strong women around me. Of course, my mother being one of them. So much of how I approach things is less about the fight and more about how do we show up in a space and wash things over with love and kindness and generosity.”

Doria Ragland celebrated her birthday on September 2, just before Prince Harry’s upcoming 40th birthday and his solo trip to New York, where he will join forces with charities. This time last year, the dynamic trio celebrated Doria’s birthday by attending Beyoncé‘s “Renaissance” tour, and even though this year was a little less sparkly, it was definitely still special.