Oprah Winfrey and 9-year-old Quvenshane Wallis honored at Essence luncheon
Nine-year-old Oscar nominee, Quvenshane Wallis, and Oprah Winfrey were honored on Thursday at Essence magazines sixth annual Black Women in Hollywood awards luncheon.
The Associated Press reports the young actress had to stand on a step in order to speak at the podium. Among several people, she thanked God, Beasts of the Southern Wild director Behn Zeitlin and her babysitter on set.
She is the youngest actress in the history of the Oscars to be nominated for the title of best actress. She is also one out of 10 African-Americans to be recognized in the same category.
As for Winfrey, her eyes watered after she was introduced by the graduating class of the Leadership Academy for Girls of South Africa. She was honored with the Power Award according to Madamenoire.
She said, I am humbled by this day. Theres nothing better than being honored by your own.
The president of Essence magazine states that the honorees were changing the definition of power through their presence and accomplishments in Hollywood.
Other stars who attended the luncheon were Blair Underwood, Laila Ali, Alfre Woodward and Gabrielle Union, who received the Fierce and Fearless Award.