From a black southern child born into poverty, to one of the first African-Americans to become a billionaire, this person is an example of what some may call a “rag to riches” story. Now, at the age of 52, she owns her own studio, that is worth about 1.4 billion dollars, and is admired by millions of people. But the path that led her from her grandmother’s farm, to being one of the most powerful people in the world, didn’t happen overnight. It took great determination and focus.
Oprah Winfrey’s success began with her broadcasting career, which she began at the age of 17, when she was hired to read news on the air. After high school, she received a four-year scholarship to Tennessee State University, where she majored in Speech Communication and Performing Arts.
The main reason of the Oprah Winfrey Show’s success is due to the fact that Oprah can relate to her audience. She isn’t just another famous entertainer, she’s a role model to everyone, of any gender or race. Due to her difficult childhood, she’s become an advocate for both women and children. In fact, in 1993, former President Bill Clinton signed the national “Oprah Bill” establishing a national database for convicted child abusers.
Oprah Winfrey was born on January 29th, 1954 in rural Mississippi to her unwed parents Vernon and Vernita. She spent the first six years of her life living with her grandparents, where she learned to read and write at an early age. Oprah once stated that if it wasn’t for her grandmother’s “foundation for success” she probably wouldn’t be as successful as she is today. Despite this, Oprah still had a tough childhood.
From age six to thirteen, Oprah lived with her mother in Milwaukee. Her mother often worked long hours damaging their relationship. In fact, Oprah’s early childhood was not typical for average American girls. She was raped, gave birth to a premature baby, and was sent to a juvenile