Women we admire: Oprah Winfrey

It is no surprise to any that Oprah Winfrey is a woman we revere at The Like-Minded Collective. Her impacts on media, philanthropy and women empowerment, cannot be overstated. Oprah’s story is one we draw upon time and time again when we need a reminder of the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself.

Oprah has been open about the fact that her early life was marked by adversity and hardship. Born into poverty in rural Mississippi, she faced numerous challenges, including a troubled family life and poverty. Yet, she never let her circumstances define her. From an early age, Oprah displayed an insatiable curiosity and a natural gift for public speaking, which would ultimately pave the way for her future success.

Oprah's breakthrough came when she became the first African American female news anchor at WJZ-TV in Baltimore. Her undeniable talent and charisma soon caught the attention of network executives, leading to the launch of "The Oprah Winfrey Show" in 1986. The show quickly became a global phenomenon, changing the landscape of television and transforming Oprah into a household name.

But it wasn't just her captivating interviews and engaging demeanour that made her a superstar. Oprah used her platform to tackle critical social issues, from race and gender equality to mental health and personal development. Her authenticity and vulnerability resonated with millions, creating an emotional connection that transcended television screens.

Even beyond this, Oprah has leveraged her immense wealth and influence to support numerous philanthropic causes. From founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa to donating millions to education and healthcare initiatives, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to making the world a better place. She reminds us that success is not just about personal gain but also about lifting others up.

Oprah has also championed the importance of self-improvement, encouraging her audience to live their best lives through her "Oprah's Lifeclass" series. Her book club, "Oprah's Book Club," has turned many lesser-known authors into international bestsellers. Oprah's love for reading and her commitment to self-improvement are a testament to the importance of continuous learning and personal growth.

Oprah Winfrey's life and legacy serve as a powerful source of inspiration. She's a living testament to the fact that with hard work, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself, anyone can overcome adversity and make a lasting impact on the world.

Oprah reminds us that our potential for greatness knows no bounds, and we should never underestimate the transformative power of our dreams and actions.

PHOTO: PEOPLE / GETTY IMAGES