Oprah Winfrey: A Social Activist

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“I do not think of myself as a poor deprived ghetto girl who made good. I think of myself as somebody who from an early age knew I was responsible for myself, and I had to make good.” Those are some of the many famous words of Oprah Winfrey. Winfrey suffered through a troubled childhood but she did not let those obstacles overcome her. Oprah persevered through even the most difficult times and continued to work towards her goals in life. Oprah Winfrey is known for her international status as a social icon, her charitable deeds, and her influence on the American society. Oprah Gail Winfrey was born on January 29, 1954 in the small town of Kosciusko, Mississippi into a troubled family. Winfrey suffered through a childhood of poverty and sexual…show more content…
Thus, Winfrey began the “Angel Network.” Oprah started this network to give back to the community that has given her so much. Through the Angel Network, Oprah has funded scholarships, started schooling systems in over 55 countries, supported many United States cities after devastating hurricanes, and has motivated millions of people through her social connections. For example, in 2002 Winfey met with Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa, to pitch her idea on building a leadership academy for young women. (The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls.) After donation approximately 40 million dollars, the school was finally opened in 2007. Winfrey says, “When you're changing a girl's life it's not just that life. You start to affect a family, a community, a nation.” On her nationally aired television show, Oprah shares many personal experiences, circumstances, advice, and has encouraged all of her viewers that they have the strength to overcome any obstacles they set their mind to. Winfrey did not just stop there. She began the “O Magazine” to continue to reach out to any one she could. In the “O Magazine” one will continue to find many tips on life and words of encouragement and Winfrey’s wisdom. Winfrey has also donated to many public charities, especially by providing school supplies and scholarship money to underprivileged children across the world. Oprah is not only involved with her community but the entire world as well. Through many social connections, Oprah Winfrey, is able to personally reach out and connect with her supporters on a personal level. With her intelligent, outgoing, honest, and relatable personality many people are drawn to Oprah. On her talk show she introduced a segment titled, “Oprah’s Book Club.” It is essentially a book club for any one interested, whereby Oprah personally reads a book

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