Harry Cummins
Updated on: October 16, 2024 2:07 am GMT
Lady Frederick Windsor, born Sophie Winkleman, recently shared her heartfelt reflections on the British royal family, revealing the strong bonds she has cultivated with her relatives over the years. In an exclusive interview with HELLO!, she praised their supportive nature and the inspiration they provide, noting that this year marks the 15th anniversary of her marriage into the royal family.
Celebrating Family Bonds
Sophie expressed her gratitude for the royal family’s warmth and support, emphasizing how fortunate she feels to have them in her life. “I count pretty much every one of them as a trusted friend,” she stated, encapsulating the camaraderie that has developed within their family. Her appreciation extends to King Charles III and the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, whom she referred to as “wonderful” and “brave.”
“I last saw her at Wimbledon; it was so cheering to see her, beautiful as ever,” Sophie recalled, reflecting on her recent interaction with Kate. The admiration is mutual. Sophie has been vocal about how the royal family tackles challenges while maintaining their public roles. “The central royal family work very hard. It’s not an easy existence, having a spotlight on you from the second you’re born,” she said.
Championing Causes Close to Her Heart
Throughout the interview, Lady Frederick emphasized her commitment to social causes, particularly her work with The Big Issue Group, which launched its Big Community initiative. This initiative includes several programs, like Community Roadshows and a new policy titled Poverty Zero, aimed at addressing homelessness and poverty across the UK.
Sophie displayed a compassionate approach when discussing homelessness. She stated, “I talk to every homeless person I pass. I find it sad when people simply walk past homeless people.” Her message is clear: small acts of kindness, such as offering a smile or a kind word, can make a difference. Earlier this year, she joined vendors on the streets of London to sell copies of The Big Issue magazine, further reinforcing her commitment to this cause.
Admiration for King Charles
Sophie’s praise for King Charles was particularly poignant. She noted his relentless duty, even amidst personal challenges, specifically his battle with cancer. “Duty and service run through him like a stick of rock,” she said, highlighting the King’s dedication to his royal responsibilities. “He’s battling cancer and doesn’t give himself a moment off – he’s a hugely inspirational man.”
This level of commitment is something Sophie deeply respects. She recognizes the weight of responsibility that comes with being a member of the royal family and understands the sacrifices they make for their public roles.
A Joyful Family Life
Alongside her royal ties, Sophie enjoys a fulfilling family life with her husband, Lord Frederick Windsor. The couple has two daughters, 11-year-old Maud and 8-year-old Isabella. Sophie’s own experiences have led her to hold strong opinions about social media and its impact on young people.
“The poor girls – there’s nothing less cool than to have a mother who’s campaigning against smartphones,” she laughed, expressing her hope that her daughters will appreciate her perspective as they grow older. She firmly believes that children should not have access to the internet before turning 16, citing concerns over exposure to violence and harmful content on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
The Power of Community
Through her work and advocacy, Sophie is demonstrating the importance of community. Her engagement with The Big Issue provides insight into how individuals can make a significant impact on society. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the challenges faced by the homeless and marginalized populations, and how collaborative efforts can bring about change.
In discussing her initiatives, she stated, “It’s such a privilege to be able to talk about something you care about and for people to listen.” This sentiment resonates with those involved in community efforts, as it emphasizes the need for awareness and dialogue surrounding pressing social issues.
Conclusion: A Voice for Change
Lady Frederick Windsor serves as a reminder of the profound connections that can exist within families, even when they are under the public eye. Her dedication to her family, her advocacy for social causes, and her candid reflections provide a glimpse into the life of a royal who is not only committed to her loved ones but also to making a positive difference in society.
For those looking to get involved in advocating for social issues such as homelessness, joining initiatives like The Big Issue offers an avenue for support and positive change. As Sophie Winkleman highlighted, every small effort counts in making a difference, and through compassion, community, and dedication, profound changes can unfold.
If you want to get more involved, you can find out how to join The Big Issue by visiting their website. You can also read Sophie’s full interview, which has lots of interesting stories and ideas, in the latest issue of HELLO! You can buy it in stores or online.
