Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
Full Name: Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
Nationality:
Profession: Africa's First Elected Female Head of State
Why Famous: Sirleaf became the world's first elected black female president and Africa's first elected female head of state when she took office as the President of Liberia (2006).
After signing a Freedom of Information bill, she has become a global icon due to her commitment to fighting dictators, corruption and poverty through the empowerment of women.
In 2011 Sirleaf was awarded the Nobel Peace prize for her nonviolent role in promoting peace, democracy and gender equality.
Born: October 29, 1938 (79 years old)
Birthplace: Monrovia, Liberia
Historical Events in the Life of Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
- 2005-11-23 Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, is elected president of Liberia, the first woman to lead an African country
- 2006-01-16 Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is sworn in as Liberia's new president. She becomes Africa's first female elected head of state.