During her visit with Nelson Mandela in December 2000, Oprah Winfrey  pledged to build a world-class school for girls in South Africa. Two years later, on 6 December 2002, Mr. Mandela and the then Minister of Education, Professor  Kader Asmal, joined Ms. Winfrey to break ground on the site of the Academy - located in Henley on Klip in Gauteng province.
 
In January 2007, we officially opened with 7th and 8th Grade girls. The Academy will grow by one Grade each year until it reaches full capacity in 2011, with approximately 380 students in Grades 7 through 12.
 
Through personal donations made by Ms. Winfrey, the Oprah Winfrey  Leadership Academy Foundation contributed more than US$40 million toward the Academy's creation. The Foundation will continue to operate the school and its boarding facilities. The Foundation is a Section 21A company  registered in South Africa, as well as an Illinois not-for-profit corporation and a US 501(c)(3).
 


 
We support the development of a new generation of dynamic women leaders. By virtue of their unique education, this generation will lead the enduring transformation of their communities and country.
 
 

 
We strive to provide a nurturing educational environment for academically gifted girls who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
 
Our educational programmes are designed for girls in Grades 7 to 12 who have demonstrated academic talent and leadership potential. We equip students with the intellectual and social skills necessary to assume positions of leadership in South Africa and abroad.

   
  
 
  
 
  

© 2011 The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation. All rights reserved.
The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation is a trademark of The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation.
Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls is a registered trademark of The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation.