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Entertainment
Karina Babenok

Meghan Markle Sparks Outrage After Her New Business Venture Uses “African Women As Props”

Meghan Markle’s latest business venture has left people divided. While some appreciated the Duchess of Sussex’s seemingly ethical approach, others accused her of exploiting poverty. Meghan was recently announced as an investor for the Cesta Collective. The brand specializes in basket bags that are handwoven by a collective of women in Rwanda and finished in Italy. 

The 43-year-old entrepreneur discovered the Cesta brand while online shopping and became a fan. She was subsequently photographed wearing one of their bags to a high-profile dinner in May 2023 with Cameron Diaz and Gwyneth Paltrow. 

Upon discovering the photos and how they boosted sales, Cesta’s founders, Erin Ryder and Courtney Fasciano, reached out to Meghan. She later became the brand’s first outside investor, acquiring a minority stake, though she did not disclose the amount she invested.

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