Bloemfontein – As Friday progressed in an ice cold Bloemfontein, people were making their way to the Callie Human Centre, in anticipation of the arrival of the queen of talk – Oprah Winfrey.
BuaNews caught up with a group of girls from St Michaels School for Girls, who were anxiously waiting for the talk show host’s arrival. The girls also had a case of nerves, as they were going to perform for Miss Winfrey.
“We’re in the school choir, and we’re going to sing for Oprah. We’re so nervous,” giggled one of the girls, wearing a big smile.
The girls were part of the acts in the entertainment show before the formal ceremony begins.
Even more excited were first year varsity students and friends, Lebohang Maseko and Victoria Muthambara.
“I didn’t think I’d get to see Oprah, but my friend surprised me with a ticket to the event,” said Victoria. Asked what they expected Oprah’s presence would bring, Lebohang offered: “I think a lot of people have these crazy ideas, they’re expecting her to give away some free stuff, like cars, but I don’t think that’s going to happen!”
On a more solemn note, Lebohang says she can’t wait to meet Oprah. “She’s overcome a lot in her life, and that’s the kind of person I aspire to be.”
“Just to see her live has been one of my dreams. I’ve learnt a lot about financial advice from her shows, now I know how to handle my money. She’s taught me a lot about confidence and that things happen in life, but you can fight back and learn not to dwell in the past,” says Victoria.
The formal honorary doctorate awarding ceremony started at 3.30pm and was preceded by an entertainment show at 2pm. After the ceremony, Oprah addressed students, followed by a Q&A session with the students only.
Much to the disappointment of many journalists, they were not allowed to ask the media mogul any questions. – Matona Fatman, BuaNews
