Oprah Winfrey South Africa Leadership Program, May 15-27, 2022

On May 15, 2022, nine Oprah Winfrey scholars embarked on the Oprah Winfrey South Africa Leadership Program, participating in a transformative experience in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa. The experience included meetings with community leaders and university and other academic officials, faculty, and students at the University of the Western Cape, University of Cape Town, the University of Pretoria, and Democracy Works. A visit to the NBA Africa Offices featured a presentation by Morehouse alum and NBA Africa COO, George Land. Days of service included a visit to the Mahou AIDS Orphanage and to a preschool where scholars served food, painted, and helped to enhance the physical space. Historic sites visited included the Hector Pieterson Museum, Mandela House, Leah and Desmond Tutu Foundation and Robben Island. 

Scholars and faculty engaged in focused discussions and reflection on their experiences. Discussions examined issues of race, inequality, poverty and privilege, reconciliation, and much more. Comparative analysis of social justice issues in the United States and South Africa were explored. Scholars completed e-portfolios documenting and reflecting upon their learning about South Africa and themselves.