As The Daily Express put it, Kate “began her royal journey in William’s shadow, and was shy at times in the early days.” That was a long time ago, though, and now “her confidence has grown,” the outlet reported, and she often undertakes solo engagements, like Monday’s outing to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the Irish Guards.

After completing her chemotherapy treatment, the Princess of Wales could have been forgiven for easing herself slowly and gently back into royal duties. Instead, for her first official public engagement,

One year after revealing her cancer diagnosis, Princess Kate steps into the spotlight with renewed strength, purpose and an unshakable bond with Prince William