Happy Birthday Oprah!

Today is Oprah Winfrey’s 58th birthday! What do you say about a woman who is an icon to millions of people worldwide, has touched so many lives and is arguably the most influential woman in the world? Let’s take a look at just a few ways Oprah has literally changed the world.

The Oprah Winfrey Show

For 25 years Oprah entertained and educated audiences with the talk show that made her a household name, The Oprah Winfrey Show. We talked about the top 5 moments from her show last year before her inspiring series finale (an episode that made everyone teary-eyed!).  Being the highest ranked talk show in American television Oprah interviewed everyone from celebrities like Michael Jackson to global icons like Nelson Mandela. Of course besides the interviews the show was most well known for its extravagant giveaways.

Oprah Winfrey’s Book Club (photo courtesy | AP Photo/Harpo Productions, Inc., George Burns)

Oprah’s Book Club

When Oprah said everyone needs to start reading more and started her book club in 1996 everyone followed her instructions. The book club started as a segment on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 1996 and every book chosen by Oprah quickly made it to the top of the charts.

Oprah at the opening of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa

Philanthropy

Oprah is the world’s 32nd most philanthropic person and possibly the #1 celebrity philanthropist. Oprah has contributed more than $40 million towards creating a school in South Africa; has donated millions during natural disasters  and continues to support charitable projects.

Oprah Winfrey & President Obama campaigning in 2008 (photo courtesy | AP)

President Obama

For the very first time Oprah came out to endorse the U.S presidential candidate in 2008 ; her vote went to President Obama. There’s been speculation that one of the biggest reasons Obama won the presidency was thanks to Oprah’s endorsement. Does this mean Oprah was responsible for America’s first African-American president? Quite possibly.

Team MissMalini wishes Oprah a very Happy Birthday, we thank her for the constant inspiration and look forward to learning more!