Prince Harry Talks Fatherhood and Why He’s Never Voted in Surprise L.A. Appearance

Mar. 15, 2025

The Duke of Sussex makes a speech at the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games, at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada. Picture date: Sunday February 16, 2025.

Aaron Chown/PA Images via Getty

Prince Harrymade a surprise appearance at a venture capital event on Thursday, speaking to the crowd at the Upfront Summit in Los Angeles.

“I’m here to talk about something that I believe will resonate with all of you as leaders, creators, builders and changemakers: How do we invest in our shared future to solve the challenges we face today as a divided society?” Harry told the audience.

“As a dad, this has me constantly looking for solutions. As a man who was born into a life of service, I recognize that with power and a platform comes responsibility,” he continued. “And these days, I am determined to find and invest in solutions.”

Harry noted that his royal upbringing gives him a unique apolitical perspective on most subjects. “Hell, I’ve never even been allowed to vote!” he joked.

He explained that service to others has always been his main keystone when attempting to build a better world.

The Duke of Sussex attending the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada. Picture date: Saturday February 15, 2025.

“From my institutional role traveling the world to my decade of duties in the military, I saw the power of serving others firsthand,” he said. “My personal experiences overseas taught me that when you put others first, you build stronger, more sustainable systems. That’s true from Nigeria to Nepal, and from Sydney to Santa Barbara.”

The Duke of Sussex speaking at the Whistler Welcome Celebration at the 2025 Invictus Games in Whistler, Canada. Picture date: Monday February 10, 2025.

Prince Harry assured the crowd that he had not “wandered into the wrong room,” pivoting to a discussion about how individuals and companies alike can invest in “companies that are developing technological solutions to address the root causes of societal challenges.”

“I’ve spent the last five years — sometimes publicly but primarily quietly — investing in companies that align with my values and vision of a better tomorrow, companies that understand the power and significance of service,” he shared, noting a commitment to causes supporting “mental fitness to carbon sequestration, early education to veteran employment.”

“In a world where technology is more embedded in our lives than ever before, it’s easy to forget the human aspect of it,” he continued. “I’ve seen firsthand how technology can bring people together, but more often how it can divide and harm them, especially our children. And if we aren’t prioritizing the safety of our children, what does that say about the very industry that is shaping our world?”

“Every business decision can reflect a commitment to serving others, whether it’s your customers, your community, or the planet,” he told the crowd. “That’s the future I see: companies that are designed not just for profit but for an investment in a better shared future.”

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attend the Whistler Welcoming Ceremony during day two of the 2025 Invictus Games

Samir Hussein/WireImage

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source: people.com