Chiadika Uzor explains why the American media mogul Oprah Winfrey is an inspiration to the world
Today’s youth crave inspiration, but in our society we don’t always come by positive influences that will stimulate us to be the best that we can be. That being said, there are still some people who work actively in the public eye to project what in my opinion is the true definition of inspiration.
Oprah Winfrey is one of those most deserving of the world’s respect and honour for her prestigious accomplishments in using her fame to change the world for the better, especially when it comes to the state of poverty and hunger in developing countries.
An American television host, actress, producer and philanthropist, Oprah had always been inclined to serve the people. As affluent as she is, she never stops giving – which is what many find most extraordinary about this renowned ‘wonder woman’
But all that wealth and influence wasn’t just handed to her. Just like every aspiring youth, Oprah had to work her way to the top. Driven by poverty at the early stages of her life, she has since invested much of her wealth and time visiting some of the worst affected areas of poverty in Africa. She went to schools and orphanages and distributed toys, storybooks, clothes and of course charitable donations.
In 2007 she fulfilled her lifelong dream of establishing a school in her own name, the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in Johannesburg, South Africa. The school enrolled 152 students upon opening and provided them with all the amenities and educational facilities that some of us wish we had access to during school.
Not only lifting the barrier to education and literacy in the lives of these young girls forever, Oprah brought back life and hope and put a smile on their faces at a time of considerable hardship. A lot of those girls know what rejection at a young age feels like; some have experienced rape by family members, and as a result are in a very dark place in their lives. Many have lost parents to Aids, yet they live life with a brave face.
Oprah herself has been at the dark end of the tunnel. She knows exactly what the humiliation of rape and sexual abuse can do to a young girl, and had since pledged to do everything within her power to create more awareness about such issues concerning the youth and oversee that resolutions to these problems are met.
Throughout her adult professional life, Oprah has helped to transform countless lives and also changed our understanding of charity work. Growing up and being so fortunate as to be able to watch someone like Oprah has made me realise that generosity isn’t only for the rich and famous, and certainly doesn’t have to be in form of money. Rather, the most rewarding way of demonstrating benevolence is by doing whatever we can. Chatting with a homeless person, buying them some food or even giving them an old blanket – the simple things don’t count for nothing. Every little effort we make can make a big difference to others.
The name ‘Oprah’ represents a famous television pioneer, a philanthropist, a woman who is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in; an intelligent, dignified woman worthy of the utmost respect, and a voice for the less privileged.
Oprah Winfrey has exceeded the wildest imaginations of her supporters and critics; caring for the poor, comforting the sick and restoring life back into the youth of her country and the wider world.
Yet in spite of her remarkable achievements, she remains unassuming and humble. The talk show host once said of herself that her mission on this earth will never fully be accomplished until she takes her last breath.
Oprah is truly an inspiration for young and old alike. Indeed, she paves the way for us all.
Chiadika Uzor is a student of St Dominic’s College in Cabra.
