Prince Harry was just in Germany for the Invictus Games and his choice of accessories caught the attention of many.
Reports emerged describing his wrist attire as a “bro bracelet” – the term used for items replacing traditional watches.
But it’s not a friendship bracelet per say, at least not in the traditional sense; it’s a tribute to his mother, the late Princess Diana.
In 1997, Prince Charles took Harry, 12, and William, 15, to Africa “to get a away from it all”, following the tragic death of their mother in a car crash.
It was in Africa where Harry found the black and silver bracelet and he’s worn it every day since — to school, through his courtship with Meghan Markle and even on his wedding day.
In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Harry opened up about having a connection with Africa, saying: “I first came to Africa in 1997, straight after my mum died. My dad told my brother and I to pack our bags — we were going to Africa to get it away from it all.”
He didn’t just find the bracelet in Africa, he found a sense of peace, saying: “This is where I feel more like myself than anywhere else in the world. I wish I could spend more time in Africa. I have this intense sense of complete relaxation and normality here.
“To not get recognized, to lose myself in the bush with what I would call the most down-to-earth people on the planet, people [dedicated to conservation] with no ulterior motives, no agendas, who would sacrifice everything for the betterment of nature… I talk to them about their jobs, about what they do. And I learn so much.”
While he may not get back to Africa as much as he likes, he carries a piece of the culture with him, everywhere he goes.
And, the reminder of how comforting that first trip was, at age 12, when experiencing such anguish as he grieved the loss of his dear mother.
The bracelet can be spotted on his right arm. Pretty much any photo you see him in, or video, he will be wearing the bracelet.
It’s 26 years and counting – and that is quite the commitment.
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