Duchess Sophie has become one of the Royal Family's quiet leaders over the years, embracing a variety of causes close to heart as she supports the monarchy. The Duchess of Edinburgh has also become a steadfast confidante of Princess Kate, standing by her side as she's gone through cancer treatment. When Commonwealth Day came around on March 10—an event that Sophie and husband Prince Edward typically never miss—it surprised royal fans not to see the Edinburghs in attendance. However, it turns out Sophie's secret trip to New York City this week was on behalf of a very important cause.
The Duchess of Edinburgh traveled to NYC to support one of her newest patronages, Plan International UK, a children's charity that fights for girls' rights around the world. Sophie has long been a champion of organizations that support women and girls, and she met with a group of global youth advocates for a special panel discussion held during the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.
