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A look at Catherine’s extra ordinary journey from being a commoner to becoming the Princess of Wales

Having no aristocratic background whatsoever, Kate Middleton, a commoner by birth, did more than marry into the most historied royal clan ever — there are no opinions about the fact that she truly rewrote the role of the contemporary duchess, weaving a story worthy of a fairy tale.

Born in Reading, England, on January 9, 1982, she grew up in a loving, supportive household in Bucklebury, balancing privilege with a sense of commonality.

Educated at Marlborough College, where she excelled in academics and sports, she later pursued Art History at St Andrews. There, in 2001, she crossed paths with Prince William—the elder son of King Charles III and Diana, Princess of Wales.

Legend has it that her sure-footed walk in a sheer dress at a charity fashion show caught William’s romantic attention, marking a turning point in their story.

Their Cinderellaesque romance, however, had its fair share of dungeons, dragons, and demons. The paparazzi, always feeding the gossip-mongering tabloids, hounded the couple, with their creepy drive reaching a crescendo during their 2007 breakup.

Kate braved the media trial with remarkable composure, earning admiration for her perseverance. For years, she was dubbed “Waity Katie” by the press, as speculation over William’s proposal grew louder.

But she never wavered. In 2010, the long-awaited engagement was announced, followed by a 2011 wedding broadcast to millions worldwide. With that, she became the Duchess of Cambridge, stepping into royal life with grace.

Beyond tiaras, gowns, and duties, Kate has carved a legacy of her own. As a mother to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, her parenting style is the right mix of tradition and ways of the new age.

This approach inspired the founding of “The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood”, reflecting her commitment to giving children the best start in life.

She also spearheaded “Heads Together” — an initiative that combines a campaign to tackle stigma and change the conversation on mental health with fundraising for a series of innovative new mental health services.

In 2023, she set in motion “Shaping Us” to raise awareness of the critical importance of early childhood in shaping the adults the children become. Photography is one of her bylines.

She skillfully captures intimate portraits of her children being an accomplished snapper. An ardent sports enthusiast, she often graces Wimbledon’s royal box as the patron of the All-England Lawn Tennis Club.

Kate was invested with the title of the Princess of Wales— the first since Princess Diana — following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Meanwhile, a 2024 health challenge also put her limits to test when she underwent a major surgery, later revealing a cancer diagnosis to the horror of her fans; however, with her utter willpower, she slayed the beast like a warrior princess.

As she quests toward becoming queen consort, one thing is clear: Kate Middleton is influencing the monarchy with grace, resilience, and an unshakable dedication to the people.