In the midst of notable changes within the British monarchy, one royal has emerged as a significant player: Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh.

Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth and the departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to the United States, Sophie has taken on a more prominent role, becoming a vital member of the royal family during these turbulent times.

Known fondly as the late Queen’s favorite, Sophie has been stepping into the limelight more frequently.

She’s been attending high-profile events like state banquets and Trooping the Colour alongside Queen Camilla, marking her growing visibility within royal circles.

This shift in her role has become particularly pronounced since the Sussexes left their royal duties, creating a noticeable void that Sophie has been filling with grace and dedication.

As one of the few working royals under 70, Sophie stands alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla, actively participating in royal engagements.

Her recent appearance at a state banquet for the Japanese royals, where she was seated next to Emperor Narito, showcased not only her rising influence but also the trust King Charles places in her capabilities.

While Sophie may not be in constant contact with Meghan Markle these days, their shared passions for humanitarian causes—such as combating gender-based violence and advocating for girls’ education—highlight a common ground.

Both women have demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the world, even if their approaches differ.

Sophie’s work as a royal has taken her to various corners of the globe, including Kosovo, South Sudan, and Iraq.

Her advocacy for women’s rights is particularly evident from her impactful visit to Sierra Leone in 2020, where she engaged with communities affected by violence and promoted peace-building efforts.

This hands-on approach underscores the tangible contributions that members of the royal family can make.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams describes Sophie as cheerful, dedicated, and unpretentious.

Unlike some royals who may seek the spotlight, Sophie quietly supports numerous charitable organizations without craving public recognition.

Her focus remains on making substantive contributions rather than seeking fame, reminiscent of Princess Anne’s own dedication to service.

Despite their contrasting styles, Sophie has earned respect and trust within the royal family, especially from King Charles.

He appreciates her reliability and unwavering commitment, qualities that have become increasingly important as the monarchy faces ongoing challenges.

Interestingly, reports suggest that the late Queen considered Sophie as a potential mentor for Meghan when she first joined the royal family.

However, Meghan chose to lean on her husband, Prince Harry, for support instead.

This decision perhaps reflects the different paths each woman has taken within the royal framework.

Since her husband, Prince Edward, was granted the title of Duke of Edinburgh, Sophie’s status within the royal household has shifted notably.

This change not only elevated her personal standing but also altered the dynamics of her interactions with other royals, particularly those who have distanced themselves from traditional royal duties.

Married to Prince Edward since 1999, Sophie has balanced her royal responsibilities with raising their two children, Lady Louise Windsor and James Viscount Severn.

Her dedication to both family and public service illustrates her multifaceted role within the monarchy.

As the British royal family continues to navigate its evolving landscape, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, stands out as a beacon of resilience and commitment.

Her journey from being a supportive confidante of the late Queen to a respected figure in her own right speaks volumes about her enduring dedication to the monarchy and its legacy.