Oprah Winfrey, the most famous U.S talk show host,  must be commended for her remarkable contribution to the African culture. Her interest and work  in Africa is a shining example of how this wonderful woman of class and etiquette uses her hard earned wealth and influence to extend a hand of generosity not only to the American world around her but to a world distant from her that she holds dear. Oprah has always expressed an interest in Africa  and when the opportunity came for her to connect with her roots, Oprah did so with dignity.

*

She has established one of the most well-equipped schools for girls in South Africa, to nurture, educate and turn gifted South African girls from impoverished backgrounds into the country’s future leaders. What is also fascinating is that Oprah has a hands-on in the school’s administration. She is always up to date with what is happening on the ground and request constant reports from staff as to the status of her students.  The recent defamation case filed by the former headmistress of her girls school against her, for simple comments she made about her, can only be viewed as a futile attempt to embarrass a woman whose kindness and generosity can only be matched by her  fortitude. Oprah has a distinguished and impeccable background and may not even need any defence to exonerate her.

*

The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls  was created to support the development of a new generation of women leaders in South Africa.  Oprah’s aim is to empower young girls who by virtue of their education and leadership will positively transform themselves, their communities and the larger world around them.  It is interesting to note that  the Academy provides a rigorous and supportive educational environment for academically talented girls who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

*

This fine contribution by Oprah to the development and education of young girls in Africa will indeed leave a legacy of her compassion and humanitarian desire to make the world a better place for humanity. Young South African girls should have little difficulty looking elsewhere for a role model to define their future aspirations and dreams on. Oprah Winfrey is a classical example of the American dream and there is absolutely nothing wrong in having an African dream. We at Back to Africa Imports applaud Oprah Winfrey for her giving spirit.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 20th, 2010 at 5:07 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.