Princess of Wales and Melinda French Gates discuss youth development

The Princess of Wales met philanthropist Melinda French Gates in London on October 8 for a working session on young people’s development and possible collaboration between the Royal Foundation and Pivotal. No formal partnership was announced, and the foundation said it would explore practical options in the coming months. The meeting took place at Pivotal’s London offices. Christian Guy, executive director of The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, said the discussion focused on how to support young people’s wellbeing, belonging and ability to thrive. Pivotal, founded by French Gates, works on social progress and expanding opportunities for women and young people. Guy said the session considered how the Shaping Us Framework could inform whole-person development at every stage of life. He said the Princess developed the framework alongside more than 100 human-development experts. The discussion also addressed how supportive relationships and opportunities to develop confidence and resilience can help young people, according to Guy’s account. The Royal Foundation said it was grateful for the commitment both women brought to the work. Guy described investment in...