Mandana Dayani, a friend of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has spoken out about her time working for the couple and their ongoing relationship. Dayani, who served as president of their Archewell organisation before stepping down in late 2022, revealed a surprising three-word admission about her connection with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Brave dissent
Dayani, who previously co-created the podcast The Dissenters, said she was drawn to the couple's desire to step away from the Royal Family. She explained that their wish to "dissent against this institution" was what led her to join their company in 2021.
"Watching them dissent against this institution and say, 'This isn’t right for us', that to me felt really brave," she said. "I had a lot of respect for how they had the courage to do that, because I think that’s really hard to do."
Ongoing relationship
The couple stepped away from royal life in early 2020, with their move to the US taking place shortly after. They settled into life in Montecito, California, and their decision to return to Britain was revealed in August this year.
Despite stepping away from her role with Archewell four years ago, Dayani said she still has a great relationship with Meghan and Harry. "We actually had a really great relationship," she said, adding, "We still do."
Mutual transition
After her departure was revealed, a statement from Archewell read: "Ms Dayani has been an integral part of Archewell, and we are grateful for her passion, commitment and leadership. Ms Dayani was brought on during their parental leave to move the company and its projects forward.
"She has continued to shape its vision and future successfully. Her transition was mutually planned, with intent for The Duke and Duchess to now take full lead of their company."
