Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is widely known as the first female President of Liberia and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 29, 1938, in Monrovia, Liberia. Currently active and alive.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Liberian economist, politician, and women's rights advocate. Served as the 24th President of Liberia from January 16, 2006, to January 22, 2018.
Early Life
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was born in Monrovia, Liberia, during a time when the country was still a colony of the United States. Her father, Momora Barclay, and her mother, Jiah Doe, instilled in her a strong sense of morality and responsibility from an early age. Sirleaf's father, who worked as a farmer and a trader, was also involved in politics, which would later influence Ellen's own career path.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf began her education at the College of West Africa (CWA) in Monrovia. She then moved to the United States for further studies, attending Madison Business College in Wisconsin before transferring to the University of Colorado Boulder, where she earned a degree in economics and public administration. After completing her degree, Ellen returned to Liberia, determined to contribute to its development.
Early Career
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf started working at the Liberian Ministry of Finance in 1961. She continued her education while employed by the government, eventually earning a master's degree from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. Her work with the ministry and subsequent roles in various organizations helped her develop strong leadership skills.
Major Accomplishments
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has had an illustrious career marked by numerous achievements:
First Female President: She was elected as Liberia's first female president, making history in 2006.
Nobel Peace Prize Laureate: In 2011, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with Leymah Gbowee and Tawakkul Karman for their nonviolent struggle for the safety of women and for women's rights to full participation in peace-building work.
Reconstruction Efforts: During her presidency, she led Liberia through a period of significant economic growth, rebuilding efforts after a long civil war.Notable Works or Actions
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has been involved in various initiatives and organizations throughout her career:
Women's Rights Advocacy: She co-founded the Women's Initiative for Self-Empowerment (WISE) to empower women economically.
International Development Work: Ellen served as a Senior Director at the World Bank from 1998-2003.Impact and Legacy
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's impact on Liberia is undeniable:
Empowering Women: Her leadership has empowered countless Liberian women, promoting their participation in politics and economic development.
National Reconciliation: She played a key role in reconciling the nation after years of conflict.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's unwavering commitment to her country and its people has made her an iconic figure:
Resilience and Determination: Her ability to overcome numerous challenges, including a civil war and personal struggles, serves as a testament to her strength.
* Visionary Leadership: Ellen's progressive policies and initiatives have raised the standard for women's rights in Africa.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is an inspiration to many around the world.
Quotes by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
My calling was first of all to ensure there was peace in the country, because we could easily have gone back to war. In the midst of the country, there were still warlords; there were many child soldiers who had never gone to school - they were part of the social setting - compromises had to be made.
I underestimated the low level of capacity. I also underestimated the cultural roots of corruption.
We've done a lot to restore Liberia's credibility, Liberia's reputation, Liberia's presence.
I don't think people understand the awesomeness of the destruction of this country - its institutions, its infrastructure, its law, its morals.
My mother was a disciplinarian. She believed that when young girls start to go out with young boys, they get married.
I've been involved in politics for quite some time. I've held positions, and my experiences are very deep, and I think I have the capacity, the courage, and the character to institute the kinds of reforms that are so desperately needed.
I would like to make sure, first of all, that our women in the informal sector - I mean, these are the farmers and the traders; many of them are not educated, many of them lacking literacy - be able to give them better working conditions. And we've done a lot to be able to achieve that.
We have to overcome the practice of male domination - even though it's changing, and changing in Liberia quite drastically.
My mother was the strength. She was the anchor. She was a preacher and a teacher.