The Archewell Foundation, founded by Harry and Meghan in 2020, issued a statement following the Duke’s solo visit.

It read: “Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, spoke to a room of 350 next-generation philanthropists, social entrepreneurs, artists, and impact leaders from more than 70 countries at the annual NEXUS Global Summit today, where he discussed the impact of service and everyone’s role in shaping stronger communities to solve the issues of disconnection and social isolation and the impact it has on people globally.

Prince Harry issues statement after travelling to New York City without Meghan Markle.

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“During his conversation with Rachel Gerrol, co-founder and CEO of NEXUS Global, the Duke shared insights from his personal journey of service, describing how he evolved from being born into a life of service to genuinely wanting to serve while emphasizing the importance of compassionate leadership and the need for everyone to be in service of something greater than themselves a philosophy that aligns with The Archewell Foundation’s mission.

“He encouraged attendees to take care of one another and future generations, to tackle root causes rather than just symptoms, and to demonstrate what values-driven leadership can accomplish.”

During his appearance, Prince Harry said: “As the world gets harder, as people’s lives become harder, compassion can shrink. The thing that gives me the most hope is the grassroots approach.

“Many of you here today are connected and involved with so many community solutions, because it’s what energizes all of you, and that service part is really what energizes me as well.”

Prince Harry appears to take swipe at Royal Family during surprise New York appearance.X / The Sustainable Media Center

The Archewell statement concluded: “The Duke’s address emphasized the need to learn, listen, and invest in pressing community issues, particularly mental health care, with a reminder to demand better from our systems, from our technology, and from ourselves with a call for responsible tech that’s safe by design.

“Following his conversation, the Duke met with the NEXUS Australian delegation which consists of social impact leaders and philanthropic organizations working to address mental health and social media safety.

“He also met with a Brazilian delegation of 12 young people who have come together to tackle inequality and build a more inclusive future through education and volunteerism.

“The Archewell Foundation is dedicated to fostering community and combating social isolation, both online and offline.

Prince Harry called for the ban of the term ‘mental health’ as he appeared on a panel to discuss global mental health crisis last year.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped back from working royal duties in 2020.

Getty“When communities are strengthened and our digital world is made safer, connections can thrive without fear of harm.”

Making a sly dig at the Royal Family, Harry spoke about transitioning from having to serve to wanting to serve, marking a significant shift in his approach to public duty.

The Duke’s visit to New York marked his latest trip from his California home, where he resides with Meghan and their children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four.