Since joining the royal family, Meghan Markle has left a lasting mark on the world. She’s forged her own path, and it’s clear the Duchess of Sussex is only just getting started in her life beyond royal duties. While Meghan has always been fiercely independent—outspoken and self-assured—there have been countless times when she’s evoked memories of the late Princess Diana.

From her wedding to Prince Harry in May 2018, Meghan made it known that helping others was central to her purpose. Like her mother-in-law before her, she’s been vocal about humanitarian causes, using her platform to spotlight issues close to her heart.

But it’s not just her charity work that calls Diana to mind. Her style, her warmth with children, her hands-on parenting, and more—there are plenty of moments that feel reminiscent of the People’s Princess. Even Harry himself has noticed the similarities.

“So much of who Meghan is and how she carries herself reminds me of my mum,” Prince Harry shared in the first episode of Harry & Meghan. “She has that same compassion, empathy, and quiet strength. There’s a real warmth to her.”

In honor of Meghan’s 43rd birthday, let’s look back at the times she’s channeled Diana’s spirit.

Earlier this year, Meghan and Harry wrapped up a meaningful trip to Nigeria—a visit that mirrored Diana’s own journey to the country in 1990. The parallels between the two tours highlighted their shared commitment to making a difference.

Then, on May 17, reports emerged that the couple had been caught in a dangerous paparazzi chase—an unsettling echo of the circumstances that led to Diana’s tragic death.

Both women also chafed at the rigid expectations of royal life, leading to moments where they each pushed back against tradition in their own ways.