Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle has revealed that she endured relentless online bullying for a decade, describing herself as “the most trolled person in the entire world,” during the couple’s tour of Australia.
Speaking to students at Swinburne University of Technology on Thursday, Meghan shared her personal experiences while discussing the dangers of social media and its impact on mental health.
“For 10 years, every day, I have been bullied and attacked. And I was the most trolled person in the entire world,” she said, adding, “I’m still here.”
The duchess made the remarks during a session with young advocates associated with Batyr, an Australian mental health organisation that uses peer-to-peer programmes to raise awareness and spark discussions about mental health challenges among young people.
During the discussion, Meghan highlighted how social media companies often prioritise engagement over wellbeing, explaining, “That industry, that billion-dollar industry, that is completely anchored and predicated on cruelty to get clicks – that’s not going to change. So you have to be stronger than that.”
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, also addressed students, praising Australia’s ban on under-16s using social media as “epic” from a responsibility and leadership standpoint. He emphasised the loneliness and mental health challenges caused by social media, sharing his personal journey with therapy, and encouraging young people to seek help when needed.
Earlier in the day, Harry experienced an awkward moment when a Channel 7 reporter asked for a selfie during a walk at Scar Tree Walk in Melbourne. The prince briefly blocked the reporter’s path, later clarifying the interaction was friendly and light-hearted.
The royal couple stopped for selfies with members of the public at various points, continuing their engagement with communities across Melbourne.
Meghan has also leveraged her public appearances for fashion promotion, partnering with OneOff, an AI-powered fashion platform, allowing fans to purchase outfits she wore during her tour. Highlights included a $1,250 dress from Karen Gee, Christian Dior pumps, and several locally designed pieces showcased during the trip.
The Duchess of Sussex will also appear as a special guest on the new season of MasterChef Australia, marking her first return to the country since 2018.
Batyr is hosting a two-day workshop in Melbourne focused on the mental health challenges faced by rural and remote youth, using lived experience storytelling to foster open dialogue about wellbeing.
