Introduction: Oprah Winfrey is known across the world as the host of the most popular talk show. Due to her talk show, Oprah became a household name and her show has millions of viewers. Oprah is also one of the richest women of the world. At the same time, she has also raised millions of dollars for charities.
Early Life: Born in 1954 in Mississippi, Oprah experienced child abuse when she was growing up which made her work for the rights of the children later on in her life (Mair 1995). She helped in drafting a bill that was later on passed into law by President Clinton. The broadcast career of Oprah started in 1971, although her big break came in 1976 with their TV chat show "People are Talking" which became extremely popular. Oprah was also offered a role by Steven Spielberg in 1985 in the movie, "The Color Purple" and Oprah was also nominated for an Oscar for her performance. After reading all this publicity, Oprah started the "Oprah Winfrey show". The show has been broadcast in more than 100 countries of the world. Oprah has also been called the most influential woman of her generation by the 'Life' magazine (Zoglin 62).
Philanthropist Activities: Oprah has emerged as a philanthropist and also as a spiritual leader. She is a role model for millions. She has started an academy for poor girls in South Africa. It is estimated that Oprah has raised nearly $400 million as charity to educational causes. Her charity, Oprah's angel Network supports charitable projects and gives aid to nonprofit organizations throughout the world. The list of persons who have been helped by Oprah is increasing with each passing year (Nagle 12).
An inspiration for Millions: Oprah Winfrey succeeded to become an inspiration for millions as she was successful in overcoming the significant challenges present in her life so that she can accomplish what she has been able to, in her professional life as well as in personal life. The story of Oprah Winfrey has inspired and fascinated a large number of individuals and has also helped them in overcoming obstacles in their lives and also in achieving greatness.
References
Mair, George, Oprah Winfrey: The Real Story, 1995, Carol Pub. Group p. 47
Nagle, Jeanne M. Oprah Winfrey: Profile of a Media Mogul Rosen Publishing, 2007; p. 12
Zoglin, R.: "Lady with a calling: Oprah Winfrey, abused child and young beauty queen, was awful as an anchorwoman, but now runs TV's highest-rated daytime talk show with curiosity, humor, and sympathy" August 8, 1998 TIME Magazine, vol. 132, no. 6. pp 62-65
