• Comment: I have looked at about half of the sources. Most are to short, self-published books published on Amazon written by two or three authors, or to Instagram posts. These are not reliable sources. Curb Safe Charmer (talk) 13:59, 4 September 2024 (UTC)


Dillys I
Her Majesty Queen
Reign17 March 2013 -
Coronation4 June 2013
PredecessorKing Duncan I
BornDillys Wright
16 June 1982
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Consortyes
Husband
HRH Prince Andrew William Medhurst
(m. 2021)
Regnal name
Dillys
FamilyRoyal Wright
FatherPrince Joe Duncan (later King Duncan)
MotherPrincess Agnes (later Queen Agnes)


Dillys I (born 16 June 1982) is a Queen of the Royal Wright Family.[1][2]. She is a British-Zimbabwean-South African Queen of the Royal Wright Family[3][4].

The Royal Wright family was established in 1946,[1][5] when Princess Lizzy,(later Queen}[6][7][8] the granddaughter of King Dinuzulu[9] married John Charles Wright,[10][4] the only son of British Steel Manufacturer and baronet.

Early life and education

edit

Dillys Wright was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. She is the daughter of Prince Joe Duncan (later King Duncan) and Princess Agnes (later Queen Agnes)[4][4]. Durban born HRH Princess Lizzy Wright, (later Queen Lizzy),[11] She is the great great granddaughter of Sir John Roper Wright.[12] She is the great great granddaughter of the King Dinuzulu.[4] [11][13] She became heir apparent when her father, King Duncan I, acceded to the throne in 1990,[4] She was educated at Baines Primary School, Coghlan Primary Schools, Eveline Girls High and Montrose Girls High. After completing a science degree from the University of Middlesex, Dillys served in the health service from 2006.[14][15][16][17]

An infant Dillys in 1982. Dillys was born on 16 June 1982 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, as the first child of Princess Agnes, (later Queen Agnes), and Prince Joe Duncan Wright,(later King Duncan I)[18]. Her parents had two more children, John (born 1987), Deana (born 1989). She was christened Dillys Wright, in December 1982.

Queen Lizzy died in 1990 and Dillys' father acceded to the throne as Duncan I; Dillys immediately became the heir apparent. Under the royal decree of King Dinuzulu[13], to his son Prince Mpofu kaDinuzulu and as the monarch's grandson, he automatically assumed the traditional titles having being born in a union between two royal houses, the Rozvi Empire and Zulu Kingdom[4].

When Dillys turned five, a governess known as Mercy Gandiwa and later Marjorie Carnagie, were appointed to oversee her education. She commenced classes at St Gabriel's and then commenced classes at Baines Primary School and Coghlan Primary School [18]. Dillys was the third heir apparent to attend school, rather than be educated solely by a private tutor. She did not receive preferential treatment from the school's headmistress, who was advised by Prince Joe Duncan and Princess Agnes to have Dillys train in ballet and sports. Dillys attended Eveline High School as a boarder in Bulawayo, followed by Montrose Girls High.

In June 2002 she studied Psychology at Rusland College in Bath, Somerset and attained a Dip. Psych. Bath, Somerset has a long standing family association. Dillys' great great grandfather Sir John Roper Wright owned Widcombe Manor in Bath, [19][20][21][22]. Though Bangor University was her first choice, in October 2003, she was admitted to Middlesex University, whilst residing in Hampstead, London. She studied Health and Social Care with a 2:1 Bachelor of Science, BSc(Hons) degree. She studied Business and attained a PG Cert BA. She was awarded a Doctorate in Theology, Dr. h.c of Theology.

Career

edit

As heir apparent, Dillys undertook official duties and engagements on behalf of her father. Dillys is an author, humanitarian, conservationist and entrepreneur[23][4]. She founded the Vision Platform Ltd in 2020[24][25][26], sponsored awards, and became patron of other charities and organisation[27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35]. She manages the family firm Wright, Butler & Co[36][37], founded by her great great grand father Sir John Roper Wright[38][21][39]. She has advocated for conservation, sustainable food systems and world peace[40]. She has authored or co-authored 32 books [41][40][42][43].

Dillys became Queen upon her father's death in 2013[44]. At the age of 31, she was one of the youngest person to accede to the throne in the world.

Relationship and marriage

edit

In 2021, she married The Right Honourable Andrew William Medhurst, now HRH Prince Andrew William Medhurst.[45][46][47][48]

Dillys, like many young royals, navigated her early adult years amidst much public speculation regarding her relationships. In her youth, Dillys was romantically linked to a prominent figure, both within aristocratic and royal circles. Her charm and grace made her one of the most eligible young women of her time, and she garnered significant media attention.

Throughout her youth, Dillys was often advised by her elders to take her time in finding the right partner. Her aunt, Princess Edith Wright was particularly influential in her life, often reminding her of the importance of choosing a partner who would not only support her but also understand the demands of royal life.

Queen Dillys' most significant relationship was with Prince Andrew William Medhurst. The two met at a royal event and quickly formed a close bond. Their relationship was characterised by mutual respect and shared values, and after several years of courtship, they became engaged. Their engagement was met with widespread approval, both within the royal family and among the aristocracy, as many saw Prince Andrew William Medhurst as a suitable match for Dillys.

Queen Dillys had a small wedding due to several factors, primarily influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally, her wedding was scheduled for June 2020 with a larger ceremony and reception planned, but those plans were disrupted by the global health crisis. Their wedding in June 2021 was a graceful occasion with the wedding ceremony in Kensington and at the reception in Belgravia, attended by royals and dignitaries[49]. It marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership[50].

Royal duties

edit

Princess Dillys undertook her first public engagement in 1998, attending a charity event in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. As she grew into her role as a public figure, her duties expanded, and she represented the royal family on numerous occasions both locally and internationally[4].

During her time as Princess, Dillys balanced her public duties with a deep sense of responsibility. Over two decades, she completed thousands of engagements, attending significant national events from climate change conferences, inaugurations, and charity galas[4]. Much like her royal counterparts, she was involved in opening ceremonies, unveiling monuments, and meeting dignitaries. Her warm presence and dedication to her role endeared her to many peers and people[51][52][53]

One of her most notable roles was chairing the Arts and Heritage Initiative, an initiative dedicated to preserving and promoting heritage and arts and a Literacy Initiative [54]. Under her leadership, the Initiative has flourished, hosting several annual exhibitions and events that celebrated the world's rich cultural history.

Dillys represented her people on various diplomatic missions. In 2005, she attended the independence celebrations in Zimbabwe, where her presence was a symbol of the strong ties between the nations. She was also present at numerous international summits including Climate Chnage conferences, COP25, COP26,the Ocean Conference, Forbes Power Women Summit 2020 [51], always advocating for the importance of climate action, cultural exchange and understanding.

As Queen Dillys she remains committed to her responsibilities. She was known for her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, whether she was visiting remote villages or attending high-profile international events[55]. Her dedication to public service earned her the admiration of both her countrymen and the international community[56]

In the many years of her public life, Dillys has began focusing more on her philanthropic endeavors, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare and conservation. She became a strong advocate for women's rights and was instrumental in launching several initiatives aimed at improving access to education, literacy, sports and conservation [57].

Throughout her life, Queen Dillys has remained a steadfast representative of her people. Her legacy as a royal who balanced tradition with modernity, all while staying true to her roots, continues to inspire many.

Reign

edit

Dillys acceded to the throne after the passing of her father, King Duncan I, on 17 March 2013[44]. She became one of the shortest heir apparent in the union of Rozvi and Zulu royal customs, holding that status for 31 years. At the time of her accession, she was 31 years old, making her one of the youngest monarchs to ascend the throne.

Dillys addressed the nation in her first speech as queen on the afternoon of 4 June 2013, expressing her deep sorrow at the loss of her father while emphasising her commitment to her royal duties. That day, a proclamation ceremony was held in South Africa, marking the official beginning of her reign as Queen of the Royal Wright family. This historic event drew in a large audience both locally and abroad. Attendees included members of the royal family, chiefs, Vice President and other prominent figures from Zimbabwe's and South Africa's political and cultural spheres [4]. Dillys as a sign of respect, would mourn her father for 11 years and would then use her Sovereign title.

Queen Dillys' coronation took place on 4 June 2013. The ceremony, which had been meticulously planned for years under the code name "Operation Optimum," was a royal yet solemn affair. The event retained many of the traditional elements, including the royal decrees and the presentation of the royal insignia. The coronation was a significant moment for the Royal Wright Family [3]and its people, symbolizing continuity and the enduring legacy of the royal family.

Her reign has been marked by efforts to modernise the monarchy while maintaining its deep-rooted traditions.

Titles, styles, honours, and arms

edit

Queen Dillys holds numerous titles that reflect her status both within Zimbabwe and South Africa. Her official titles include:

"Her Majesty Queen Dillys of the Royal Wright Family": This title underscores her role as both a sovereign leader and a guardian of her people' and nation's interests. In Zulu and Ndebele: Indlovukazi (Queen)[58] a term signifying her supreme authority and revered position within the South African and Ndebele cultural context. In Shona: Mambokadzi (Queen), reflecting her esteemed status and leadership role within the Shona-speaking regions. Additionally, Queen Dillys is recognized worldwide as "Queen of the Royal Wright family and Her Other Realms and Territories". Her role as a unifying figure is also highlighted by her honorary title of "Mother of the Nations", 'Queen of Hope'.

Honours and Awards

edit

Queen Dillys has received numerous awards and decorations that honour her contributions both nationally and internationally: The Nan Blofeld Fellowship [14] [15] [16] [17] The Zim Achievers Award [36]

List of Sovereigns

edit
  • HM Queen Lizzy 1988-1990,
  • HM King Duncan I 1990-2013,
  • HM Queen Dillys 2013-

[59][1][60][61][44][62]

Dillys I
House of Wright
Born: 16 June 1982
Regnal titles
Preceded by
Duncan I
Queen Succeeded by
Incumbent

References

edit
  1. ^ a b c "The Royal Wright Family & The Wright's of Swansea Baronets by Liliane Arnault Berkeley | Waterstones".
  2. ^ "Edinburgh: A Royal Tribute to Edinburgh: Celebrating 900 Years a book by The Royal Wright Family".
  3. ^ a b "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k "Amazon.com". Amazon.
  5. ^ "Amazon.com: The Royal Wright Family: 9798332145346: Berkeley, Marie Arnault: Books". Amazon.
  6. ^ "Sons and daughters of Empire: Zimbabwe's History and th…". Goodreads.
  7. ^ "HRH Princess Lizzy : Daughter of Kingdom and Empire: A Royal Legacy of Diplomacy, Art, and the Cosmos: Berkeley, Liliane Arnault: 9798334411067: Amazon.com: Books". Amazon.
  8. ^ "Amazon.com". Amazon.
  9. ^ "Dinizulu succeeds his father, Cetshwayo, as King of the Zulus. | South African History Online". www.sahistory.org.za.
  10. ^ "Amazon.com". Amazon.
  11. ^ a b Berkeley, Liliane Arnault. HRH Princess Lizzy : Daughter of Kingdom and Empire : A Royal Legacy of Diplomacy, Art, and the Cosmos.
  12. ^ Berkeley, Marie Arnault. "Sons and daughters of Empire: Zimbabwe's History and the World". Amazon.
  13. ^ a b Berkeley, Marie Arnault. Mpofu KaDinuzulu: The Son of a King.
  14. ^ a b Wright, Dillys (October 20, 2020). "A sound education. Interview by Mary-Claire Mason". Nursing Standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain): 1987). 25 (7): 24–25. PMID 21138118 – via PubMed.
  15. ^ a b Mason, Mary-Claire (2010). "A sound education". Nursing Standard. 25 (7): 24–25. doi:10.7748/ns.25.7.24.s27.
  16. ^ a b "A sound education. Interview by Mary-Claire Mason".
  17. ^ a b "French connection - ProQuest". www.proquest.com. ProQuest 366974357.
  18. ^ a b "Amazon.com". Amazon.
  19. ^ https://historyofbath.org/images/documents/Widcombe%20Manor.pdf
  20. ^ "WIDCOMBE MANOR, Non Civil Parish - 1000571 | Historic England". historicengland.org.uk.
  21. ^ a b "John Roper Wright - Graces Guide". www.gracesguide.co.uk.
  22. ^ "Widcombe Manor, Bath 1921". Bath In Time.
  23. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  24. ^ "VISION PLATFORM LTD". March 2, 2023 – via YouTube.
  25. ^ "Vision Platform Ltd". visionplatformlimited.blogspot.com.
  26. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  27. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  28. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  29. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  30. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  31. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  32. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  33. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  34. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  35. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  36. ^ a b "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  37. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  38. ^ "Wright, Butler and Co - Graces Guide". www.gracesguide.co.uk.
  39. ^ "A Businessman's Organization". Arming All Sides.
  40. ^ a b "Innovative food systems - Wright, HRH Princess Dillys; Medhurst, The Rt Hon. Andrew; Wright, HRH Prince John Richard; Wright, HRH Princess Deana: 9798392516056 - AbeBooks". www.abebooks.co.uk.
  41. ^ "Amazon.com". Amazon. ASIN B0C1J3FCWP.
  42. ^ "9798858277842 - Astronaut William's Lunar Adventure by Wright, Hrh Princess Dillys; Medhurst, Hrh Prince Andrew William; Wright, Hrh Princess Agnes; Wright, Hrh Prince John Richard... - AbeBooks". www.abebooks.co.uk.
  43. ^ "Secrets to skincare wellness (Health and Wellness)". Goodreads.
  44. ^ a b c "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  45. ^ "Mr A.W. Medhurst and Dr D.N. Wright The Telegraph Announcements". announcements.telegraph.co.uk.
  46. ^ "Other Announcements The Telegraph Announcements". announcements.telegraph.co.uk.
  47. ^ "Amazon.com". Amazon.
  48. ^ Medhurst, Andrew William. The Art of Flowers: Quotes.
  49. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  50. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  51. ^ a b "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  52. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  53. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  54. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  55. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  56. ^ Berkeley, Marie Arnault. A Celebration of Her Majesty Queen Dillys I.
  57. ^ "Instagram". www.instagram.com.
  58. ^ "Ndlovukazi - definition of Ndlovukazi in A Dictionary of South African English - DSAE". www.dsae.co.za.
  59. ^ Berkeley, Marie Arnault. The Royal Wright Family.
  60. ^ Cite error: The named reference auto13 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  61. ^ Berkeley, Marie Arnault. The Length and Width of History.
  62. ^ Berkeley, Marie Arnault. The Royal Wright Family.