Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has been making headlines during his trip to New York City, coinciding with U.N. Week, where he participated in several high-profile events. This recent visit comes shortly after he and his family relocated to Britain last month, marking a significant return to the United States for the Duke as he engages with various leaders across different sectors.
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On 23 September 2026, Harry took the stage at the Skift Global Forum held at the North Javits Center, an influential annual gathering that aims to reshape the travel industry through innovative strategies. The event attracted a host of travel CEOs and industry innovators keen to discuss sustainable tourism and the future of travel.
Speaking at the forum, Harry reflected on the profound impact travel has had on him, recalling how he was fortunate enough to explore the world due to the encouragement of his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. In a light-hearted moment, he remarked, “I’ve been lucky enough to travel to, I think, probably all corners of the world, sent by my grandmother.” However, he quickly shifted to a more serious tone, addressing the significance of conservation and the interconnectedness of global communities that he has come to appreciate through his travels.
Harry shared a poignant anecdote from his experiences, recounting an encounter with a young boy in the Caribbean who expressed how his own country suffered due to the actions of others. “He came up to me and said, ‘You know, because of your country, my country suffers,’” said Harry, acknowledging the weight of the statement as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with privilege and visibility.
The Duke also referred to his late mother, Princess Diana, during his speech, particularly how her tragic death in 1997 shaped his understanding of the world. He spoke fondly of Botswana, a destination close to his heart, and emphasised that such places are not merely tourist spots but vital ecosystems that support wildlife and local communities. “These places are not simply somewhere to travel to. They are home,” he asserted, underscoring the need for responsible tourism.
Harry’s involvement in sustainable tourism is further exemplified through his organisation, Travalyst, which he founded in 2019. The initiative seeks to encourage the travel industry to adopt more sustainable practices, making it easier for consumers to choose eco-friendly options when travelling. The Duke remains a vocal advocate for finding a balance between tourism and environmental stewardship.
Earlier on the same day, Harry delivered a compelling speech at the Clinton Global Initiative’s annual meeting, focusing on the dangers posed by technology to children. From a parental perspective, he urged leaders to address the urgent challenges presented by artificial intelligence. “Social media learned how to capture our attention. A.I. is learning how to enter our relationships,” Harry warned, highlighting the need for caution as advanced technology becomes increasingly embedded in the lives of children.
As he navigates this busy schedule, Harry’s recent activities reflect his commitment to the causes he champions. His time in New York marks the fourth such public appearance in a week, which included the Invictus Spirit Awards in London and a well-received event focused on children’s health in Birmingham. These engagements illustrate the Duke’s dedication to maintaining a transatlantic lifestyle, balancing his responsibilities in the UK and the US.
While Harry has been active in the public eye, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has largely remained out of the spotlight since their move to Britain, although she recently shared support for her husband’s initiatives on social media. On 22 September, she posted a video from Harry’s appearance at the WellChild Awards, set to uplifting music, showcasing his engagement with young honorees.
Prince Harry’s ongoing presence in the U.S. highlights his continued commitment to various initiatives as well as the blending of his personal and professional life across both sides of the Atlantic. As the couple settles into their new home in Britain, they are keen to maintain connections with both their charitable pursuits and roots in the States.