Gemma O’Neill, who co-founded Besties alongside Jackie O in 2023, admitted she was surprised that Meghan agreed to headline the event.
“There’s no one more shocked than me,” she said.
“I have admired this woman and what she has endured, how she’s risen above it, and how she has demonstrated that a woman can be pushed down and she can still rise.”
She also joked about sharing the stage with the Duchess.
“I know what you’re all thinking because I’m thinking the same thing. How has this incredible woman gone from Oprah to talking on stage with little old me?”
Although O’Neill remains closely involved in the retreat, Jackie O stepped away from the Besties brand and its podcast last month, leaving uncertainty about whether she will attend the event herself.
Timing comes during turmoil for Jackie O
The announcement arrives during a difficult period for Henderson. Recently, the long-running Kyle and Jackie O Show ended after 22 years on air.
ARN confirmed last week that the KIIS FM program would be removed from broadcasting following an on-air dispute between Henderson and her co-host Kyle Sandilands that reportedly left her in tears.