Our Guardian Angels

From the Duchess of Cambridge to the Queen of daytime television, these charitable stars are putting their fame and fortune to good use. In honour of International Day of Charity on September 5, we salute their valiant efforts!

- Natalya Molok

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

AGE: 35, PRINCESS OF THE UNITED KINGDOM 

She may be royalty, but the Duchess of Cambridge isn’t above giving back to the people. Along with her husband and brother-inlaw, she set up The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry in 2011, to further the royal family’s philanthropic work. Much more recently, she’s spoken openly about mental health issues, and how she dealt with bouts of postpartum depression after the birth of her second child, Charlotte.

“Personally, becoming a mother has been such a rewarding and wonderful experience. However, at times it has also been a huge challenge,” she says. “Even for me, who has support at home that most mothers do not. Nothing can really prepare you for the sheer, overwhelming experience of what it means to become a mother.”

In addition, it’s worth remembering that when Kate and Prince William tied the knot in April 2011, the royal couple requested that their wedding guests donate their would-be wedding gifts to charity instead.

Michelle Yeoh

AGE: 55, ACTRESS