President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first democratically elected woman president, has risen to history’s challenge in leading her war-torn nation of Liberia to restored peace and freedom while enacting economic, social, and political change. Her incredible journey was chronicled in her memoir, This Child Will Be Great.

As President of Liberia, Johnson Sirleaf—who is known as Africa’s “Iron Lady”—stands tall as a committed leader, decision-maker, and touchstone for women’s empowerment. In 2011, she was honored for her work in securing women’s rights by being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

A Harvard-educated World Bank economist, President Johnson Sirleaf has long been involved in fighting for peace, justice, and stability in her country, saying, “My persistence in remaining in the political arena for over 30 years is with a strong desire to serve our people who we know deserve better than that which they have received in our recent history.”

Whether focusing on providing for the basic needs of her people, striving to end corruption, or advocating for women of all walks of life, not only in Liberia and Africa but across the globe, President Johnson Sirleaf lives a life of courage and vision.