In a stunning blow to the Sussexes’ reputation, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have recently been rejected by several elite New York philanthropic circles amid a high-profile charity scandal involving Harry’s longtime organization, Sentebale. The scandal, which erupted earlier this year, has cast a long shadow over their charitable ambitions and severely damaged their standing in influential social and donor networks.
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Sentebale, co-founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho nearly two decades ago to support children affected by HIV in Southern Africa, was once regarded as a deeply personal and impactful cause for Harry. However, cracks emerged when a bitter dispute between Sentebale’s board of trustees and chairwoman Dr. Sophie Chandauka led to public allegations of mismanagement, financial strain, and toxic infighting. Harry abruptly stepped down from his role in March 2025 in solidarity with the trustees, describing the breakdown as “untenable.”
New York’s prominent charity circles, known for rigorous standards and close-knit donor relationships, have reportedly closed their doors to the Sussexes following the scandal. Sources reveal that invitations to exclusive fundraising events and collaborative partnerships have been withdrawn or withheld, signaling a significant loss of influence for Harry and Meghan in America’s philanthropic world.
The controversy escalated with accusations flying in both directions: while Chandauka accused Harry of “playing the victim card” and behaving as if “above the law,” Harry’s team cited governance weaknesses under Chandauka’s leadership that jeopardized Sentebale’s mission. A Charity Commission investigation ultimately cleared Harry of wrongdoing but criticized all parties for allowing the dispute to damage public trust.
The fallout, however, continues to affect Harry’s charitable standing, as well as the Sussex brand. Insiders say the couple’s struggles to regain the public’s confidence have been exacerbated by this very public charity debacle. Meghan’s separate philanthropic efforts also face increased scrutiny amid growing skepticism.
This rejection from New York marks a sobering moment for Harry and Meghan, reminding them that even celebrity status cannot shield them from the consequences of organizational turmoil and public controversy.
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