Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was born on October 29, 1938, in Monrovia, Liberia. She grew up in Monrovia and later went on to pursue higher education in the United States, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Colorado Boulder and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University. Her early life and education set the foundation for her political career and eventual presidency.

In 1972, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was appointed as Liberia's first female Minister of Finance, serving in the administration of President William Tolbert. Her appointment was a significant breakthrough in a predominantly male government and paved the way for future leadership roles within Liberia and internationally. During her tenure, she focused on economic reforms and improving Liberia's international economic standing.

In November 1985, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was imprisoned in Liberia on charges of treason after she spoke out against the military regime of Samuel Doe. Her imprisonment highlighted her courage and determination to stand up for democracy and human rights, regardless of personal risk. After international pressure, she was released after less than a year and continued her advocacy work, becoming a symbol of resistance against dictatorship in Liberia.

On November 8, 2005, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was elected as the President of Liberia after winning the second round of voting against football star George Weah. She became Africa's first elected female head of state, a historic achievement that was celebrated worldwide as a significant advancement for women's political empowerment on the continent. Her election marked a turning point for Liberia after years of civil war and turmoil.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was inaugurated as the 24th President of Liberia on January 16, 2006. Her inauguration was a momentous occasion as she became the first female elected head of state in Africa. Her presidency focused on rebuilding Liberia's economy, infrastructure, and educational systems following the devastation of civil war. Her administration prioritized women's rights, fighting corruption, and fostering peace and reconciliation.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 7, 2011, along with Leymah Gbowee and Tawakkol Karman, for their non-violent struggle for the safety of women and for women's rights to full participation in peace-building work. Sirleaf's leadership in democratizing Liberia and advancing women's rights on a global stage was recognized by this prestigious accolade.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was re-elected as President of Liberia on November 5, 2012, in an election that was largely considered free and fair. Her re-election underscored continued faith in her leadership from the Liberian populace and international observers. During her second term, she continued to focus on economic development, fighting corruption, and national reconciliation.

In March 2014, an Ebola virus epidemic began in West Africa, heavily affecting Liberia. As President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf faced a national crisis and worked with international organizations, healthcare providers, and the government to manage and eventually curb the outbreak. Her leadership during this health crisis was critical in stabilizing the country and rebuilding trust in government operations and healthcare systems.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's presidency officially ended on January 22, 2018, when she transferred power to her successor, George Weah, in Liberia's first peaceful, democratic transfer of power in over 70 years. Her departure marked the end of a significant era in Liberian history during which she played a key role in stabilizing the country and laying a foundation for continued peace and development.

On February 13, 2018, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was awarded the Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, becoming the first woman to receive the prestigious honor. The prize recognized her exceptional leadership and lifelong commitment to advancing democracy in Liberia, her work in rebuilding the nation after civil war, and her dedication to improving the lives of Liberians.