Meghan Markle soars up annual most powerful in London list

Meghan Markle changed history when she tied the knot with Prince Harry, and now she’s soared on London’s annual power list.

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has been recognized for her influence in London. After her successful transition from an American actress to a member of the royal family, Meghan earned her place as the second most powerful and influential person in London on an annual list, according to the Daily Mail.

The yearly list honors those who are viewed as the individuals who have the biggest influence on London’s residents. Home Secretary Sajid Javid topped the just-released roll call, with Her Highness the Duchess of Sussex taking second place.

Others in the top five ranged from heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua to the BBC’s new editorial director of news, Kamal Ahmed. William Shu, the co-founder of Deliveroo, rounded out the top five for the success of his British online restaurant delivery service (we’ll take one order of spaghetti Bolognese, please).

The winner of 2018’s World’s Best Teacher competition, Andria Zafirakou, and the first female Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, earned places in the top 10, as did Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick.

The list honored the Duchess for her success in being “embraced as a senior royal'” after growing up as the “daughter of an African-American social worker.” It also pointed out that when Markle walked down the aisle partway by herself during her stunning wedding to Prince Harry, she “made refreshing breaks with royal tradition.”

In listing the 1000 most influential Londoners, the Evening Standard praised the Duchess for shattering “out-of-date perceptions of the top of society.” This year’s list marks her first appearance in the top ten.

The list is designed to choose individuals from diverse areas, including politics and business, to show how London has become stronger than ever through those who break barriers and showcase the city’s ability to provide opportunities for everyone.

“Our Progress list this year celebrates the diversity of Londoners — the brilliant people, some born here and others who have moved here, who together make our city so exciting,” said Evening Standard editor George Osborne.

“It is a roll call of talent and a rebuff to all those who want to shut Britain off from the world and close our doors to the future.”

In contrast, last year’s most influential list from the Evening Standard focused on “everyday heroes.” Those individuals were celebrated for saving lives and seeking to help others following the attacks at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge, and Finsbury Park as well as during the Grenfell Tower fire.

We expect that the Duchess — and more members of the royal family — will consistently make the list going forward.