11 October 2013
Brand South Africa has saluted US media personality Oprah Winfrey, who will address an O You! event in Johannesburg on Monday, for “playing her part to empower and inspire South African women”.
“As an international brand ambassador, Ms Winfrey has played her part to improve the lives of others around the world,” Brand South Africa CEO Miller Matola said in a statement on Friday.
“In South Africa, she has provided a platform for aspirational leaders by opening a leadership academy for girls in Gauteng. The school is home to aspiring young female leaders who have excelled academically and who display great ability.
“We salute Ms Winfrey for playing her part internationally to empower and inspire girl children, so that they know they are equal citizens of the world, deserving of equal opportunities,” Matola said.
Brand South Africa said that Oprah, who has often described former president Nelson Mandela as her personal icon, “embodies the values of the South African spirit”.
“Through her various platforms as a media entrepreneur, she has encouraged individuals to propel their personal development, and in so doing, play their part in building their communities around the world.”
A number of experts and guest speakers will also address attendees at the O You! event, which is being hosted by O, The Oprah Magazine at Johannesburg’s Gallagher Estate.
SAinfo reporter