Former Archewell President Mandana Dayani Praises Harry and Meghan’s ‘Brave’ Decision to Step Back from the Monarchy
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle settle into their new rhythm following their return to the UK, a former executive from their private foundation has spoken candidly about her tenure with the couple and the catalyst behind her decision to join their team. Mandana Dayani, an Iranian-American businesswoman and activist who served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Archewell from 2021 through late 2022, revealed that the couple’s unprecedented break from royal tradition deeply influenced her career choice.
Speaking through Daily Mail royal commentator Richard Eden, the host of The Dissenters podcast explained:
“Watching them dissent against this institution and say, ‘This isn’t right for us’, that to me felt really brave. I had a lot of respect for how they had the courage to do that, because I think that’s really hard to do. We actually had a really great relationship. We still do.”
Dayani joined Archewell in April 2021, reporting directly to the Duke and Duchess while they navigated parental leave following Princess Lilibet’s birth. Tasked with driving systemic cultural and philanthropic initiatives, she helped establish the organization’s voice during its critical formative period in Montecito.
Their mutual rapport endured long after Dayani transitioned out of Archewell; she was among the select inner circle gifted promotional baskets from Meghan’s As Ever lifestyle venture, publicly reminiscing about the Duchess’s personal warmth and generosity.
The former executive’s reflections coincide with Harry’s recent philanthropic engagement in Canada, where the Duke completed a high-altitude skydive near Toronto to fulfill a promise to a 102-year-old WWII veteran while raising awareness for military charities.
Speaking to Canadian broadcaster CTV, Harry expressed that life has been “great” since returning to British soil with his family on August 26, confirming that his very first call upon touching down on terra firma was to check in with Meghan at home.