No.96: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Episode Transcript

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What does it take to become the first female head of state in Africa and lead a nation from the ashes of civil war to peace and prosperity?

Hi, I’m Shae, a PhD Candidate at Harvard, and you’re listening to another episode of the "100 Historic Black Women You Should Know by Election Day Series." Today, we’re exploring the incredible life of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf—the Iron Lady of Liberia and Africa’s first elected female president.

Born on October 29, 1938, in Monrovia, Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s journey to the presidency was anything but ordinary. Her early education took place in Liberia, but her thirst for knowledge led her to the United States. She attended the Madison Business College in Wisconsin and later earned a degree in economics from the University of Colorado Boulder. However, it was at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government that Ellen truly honed her leadership skills, earning a Master of Public Administration degree in 1971.

Armed with this education, Ellen returned to Liberia, eager to contribute to her nation’s development. However, her outspoken stance against government corruption made her a target, forcing her into exile twice. During these periods of exile, Ellen’s career took her to the international stage, where she gained valuable experience in the financial sector, including a notable stint at Citibank.

At Citibank, Ellen worked as an international executive, managing operations across Africa and Latin America. This role not only broadened her global perspective but also reinforced her belief in the power of economic stability and development as tools for peace and progress. Her time at Citibank provided her with the financial acumen and international connections that would later prove invaluable during her presidency.

In 2005, after years of turmoil in Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf returned home to run for president. Her election marked a historic moment—not just for Liberia, but for the entire continent of Africa. As the first woman elected head of state in Africa, Ellen inherited a nation ravaged by civil war, but she was undeterred. Under her leadership, Liberia made significant strides in rebuilding its infrastructure, improving education, and advocating for women’s rights.

Ellen’s presidency was characterized by her commitment to transparency, accountability, and reconciliation. She established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address the human rights violations of the past and secured billions of dollars in debt relief, helping to stabilize Liberia’s economy. In 2011, her efforts were recognized globally when she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in securing peace, promoting social and economic development, and advancing the rights of women.

And if you’re inspired by her leadership, you’ll definitely want to check out her memoir, This Child Will Be Great, where she details her remarkable journey from a young girl in Liberia to a Nobel laureate and president. It’s a powerful read that offers deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of her extraordinary life.

Did you know that Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is affectionately known as the “Iron Lady”? The nickname speaks to her steely resolve and unbreakable spirit, which guided her through some of the most challenging periods in Liberia’s history.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s story is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and leadership in the face of adversity. If you’ve been inspired by her journey, make sure to follow me on social media and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more incredible stories like this one. And don’t forget to rate this podcast 5 stars, so we can share these inspiring histories with more listeners. Join me next time as we explore the life of another extraordinary Black woman who made history. Until then, keep listening, stay inspired, and let’s keep celebrating the women who have shaped our world.