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Meghan Markle made a surprise appearance last night to support her close friend Kelly McKee Zajfen. The women attended the Alliance for Children’s Rights 34th Annual Champions for Children at Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills; Zafjen is on the board of the nonprofit organization that provides resources for children and teens in California’s foster care system.
“She’s an incredible role model in living a life of service,” Zajfen told Hello during the event. “She does not necessarily do everything loudly; she does things quietly, so it’s really beautiful to watch. I think we feed off of each other because we love to give back, and we love to support and be of service to others.”
For the occasion, Meghan chose a strapless navy gown from Ralph Lauren, pairing it with Stuart Weitzman sandals and vintage Chanel earrings.
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A closer look at Meghan’s earrings.
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Kelly McKee Zajfen and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex at the event.
The dress Meghan wore last night is still available online, in limited sizes:
The two women reconnected in 2022 after the death of Zafjen’s young son. “The second I heard her voice, it felt like I was right back with her,” Zafjen told Harper’s Bazaar. “There’s not a day that goes by that she hasn’t checked in or I haven’t checked in. Someone can show up in a time of need or grief. And oftentimes they don’t stay or they’re only here for a short amount of time. But Meghan just always made herself available to all of us.”
Zajfen is currently expecting her third child, due this spring.
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Zajfen and Meghan last night.
Last night, the Duchess of Sussex presented Zajfen with the Francis M. Wheat Community Service Award. “Meghan is one of my best friends and I’m honored that she said yes [to presenting] and that she’s been along this journey with me as well,” Zajfen said. “She supports the Alliance and she’s been doing this for a few years now. She not only shows up for my family, but it’s a real privilege to be able to watch her mother too and so it means a lot for her to be a part of this.”
Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, celebrities, the royals, and a wide range of other topics. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma, a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram.