Oprah Delivers Stirring Keynote Address In Honor of Nelson Mandela
Oprah's speech at the University of Johannesburg was full of motivational gems in remembrance of Madiba.
Who better than to give a moving speech in honor of one of the world's most revolutionary leaders, than a renowned leader in her own right, Oprah Winfrey?
The figure did just that earlier today when she delivered the keynote address at the Is'thunzi Sabafazi event at the University of Johannesburg in honor of the South African anti-apartheid leader, and her dear friend, Nelson Mandela ahead of her appearance at Sunday's Global Citizen Festival. The event marked 5 year's since Mandela's passing and focused on erradicating gender-based violence.
During her address the celebrated media maven, gushed about her love for the country, where she famously opened an all-girls school back in 2002. She shared that she's visited the country a whopping 36 times. "I have been here 36 times, and I keep coming back because I love this country and I love its people," said Winfrey.
READ: Beyoncé's Letter to Nelson Mandela Ahead of Her Performance in South Africa
She shares fond memories of when she first met Madiba, and praised his message of unity and gratitude. "He was a man who could have sought revenge, but instead he sought reconciliation," she added. After meeting Mandela, she decided she "was going to do something for South Africa." When Nelson heard about Oprah's plans to serve children in South Africa, he invited Oprah to stay at his home—her reaction to his offer was priceless.
You can watch her entire speech below, beginning around the 13:30 mark.
Oprah Winfrey is the keynote speaker at the Is'thunzi Sabafazi eventwww.youtube.com
The orator has been met with applause and positive reactions from South Africans online, with many sharing standout quotes from her speech.
