As Prince Harry approaches his 40th birthday on September 15, 2024, he reflects on his life's journey and reaffirms his commitment to making a positive impact on the world. The Duke of Sussex, who will celebrate this milestone with his family in California, has shared his thoughts on entering a new decade of life.
"I was anxious about 30, I'm excited about 40. Whatever the age, my mission is to continue showing up and doing good in the world."
[[Prince Harry's statement to the BBC]]
Prince Harry's perspective on life has been significantly shaped by fatherhood. As a father to 5-year-old Archie and 3-year-old Lilibet, he describes parenthood as "one of life's greatest joys" that has given him a fresh outlook and sharpened his focus on his work.
The past decade has been transformative for the Duke. In 2014, at age 30, he founded the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel. This initiative came after his two tours in Afghanistan with the British Army, demonstrating his commitment to supporting veterans.
Prince Harry's life took a significant turn in 2018 when he married Meghan Markle. Two years later, the couple made the unprecedented decision to step back from royal duties and relocate to the United States. This move has strained relationships within the royal family, although the Duke has expressed a desire to reconcile with his father, King Charles III.
Despite the challenges, Prince Harry remains focused on his charitable work and upcoming projects. He is actively involved in preparations for the next Invictus Games, scheduled for February 2025 in Vancouver and Whistler. Additionally, he has been working on various undisclosed US-based initiatives.
Throughout his life, Prince Harry has been involved in numerous charitable causes, including mental health awareness and environmental conservation. He co-founded the charity Sentebale in 2006 to support vulnerable children in Lesotho and Botswana, showcasing his long-standing commitment to humanitarian efforts.
As he enters his forties, Prince Harry continues to navigate his unique position as a member of the British royal family living in the United States. His journey from a young prince to a dedicated father and philanthropist reflects his ongoing mission to create positive change in the world.