Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has become a minority stakeholder in Cesta Collective, a brand renowned for its handcrafted, handwoven bags. Markle discovered the brand while browsing online, stating, “I spend a lot of time just Googling, looking for brands.” Her recent investment in Cesta Collective highlights her commitment to supporting female-led businesses and promoting responsible production practices.
Cesta Collective employs women in Rwanda to create their exquisite bags, which are then finished in Italy. The brand’s founders, Erin Ryder and Courtney Weinblatt Fasciano, have witnessed a significant increase in sales following Markle’s public display of their bag in May 2023.
Markle’s investment in Cesta Collective aligns with her broader strategy to champion social causes and ethical business practices. This investment follows her previous involvement with several female-run companies, further solidifying her commitment to supporting emerging designers and ethical brands.
While the financial details of Markle’s stake in Cesta Collective have not been disclosed, her investment approach is described as a “dolphin tank” as opposed to “Shark Tank,” reflecting her preference for friendly and supportive business practices.
Markle’s latest investment comes amidst various public and private endeavors for her and Prince Harry. In April, the couple announced new projects with Netflix, continuing their partnership with the streaming giant. These projects are expected to amplify their influence and provide a platform for their advocacy work.
However, the couple has also faced public scrutiny, including potential political tension. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at possible “appropriate action” against Prince Harry due to his drug use admission, while also expressing a willingness to debate Markle. These events highlight the ongoing public scrutiny surrounding Meghan Markle’s life and its impact on her public image and business decisions.
