With Prince Harry’s engagement to Meghan Markle, the British royal family has captured the world’s attention once again. And while Kate Middleton’s husband will one day take the throne, it could be some time before Prince William is a monarch. Which is why you need to know more about the world’s youngest queen, Her Majesty (Druk Gyaltsuen) Jetsun Pema Wangchuck.
She’s the youngest living queen.
Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan took the throne when she was just 21 years old. Now 27, she is the youngest living queen.
She studied in England before getting married.
Prior to getting married, the Queen studied international relations with psychology and art history at Regent’s College in London, England. Upon the completion of her studies, Pema returned to Bhutan where it was announced she was to marry His Majesty (Druk Gyalpo) Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, known as the Dragon King.
The King waited to get married.
Of the Queen, the King said (via InStyle), “I have been waiting for quite some time to get married. But it doesn’t matter when you get married as long as it is to the right person. I am certain I am married to the right person.”
The Queen gave birth to a son.
In February 2016, she gave birth to The Druk Gyalsey, Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck.
She’s a philanthropist.
Queen Pema is Patron of the Royal Society for Protection of Nature. She also works with a variety of charitable organizations, including Ability Bhutan Society, Bhutan Kidney Association, and the Bhutan Red Cross Society.
