Graça Machel

Graça Machel
Founder, Graca Machel Trust
Mozambique

Graça Machel is a distinguished Mozambican political and social activist, Graça Machel has devoted her life to advancing human rights, particularly those of children, earning her global recognition and admiration.

Born on October 17, 1945, in rural Mozambique, Graça Machel’s journey began at a Methodist mission school at the age of six. She later pursued higher education in Portugal, developing her liberation politics and mingling with students from various Portuguese colonies. Her commitment to the cause of freedom led her to join Frelimo (Liberation Front of Mozambique) in 1973.

Graça Machel became the Minister of Education and Culture in Mozambique following the country’s independence in 1975. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly to implement Frelimo’s vision of universal education for all Mozambicans. The percentage of children enrolled in primary and secondary schools doubled under her leadership, demonstrating her commitment to education as a catalyst for progress.

Internationally renowned for her commitment to children’s and women’s rights, education, and development, Graça Machel has been actively involved in various organizations. She served as the President of the National Commission of UNESCO in Mozambique, a delegate to the 1988 UNICEF Conference, and played a crucial role in the 1990 World Conference on Education for All. In 1994, she was appointed as the independent expert to produce the U.N. Report on the Impact of Armed Conflict on Children, a groundbreaking study that brought attention to the plight of children in war-torn regions.

Graça Machel’s advocacy extends beyond her role as an independent expert. She is a founding member of The Elders, a group of global leaders working for peace and human rights. Additionally, she played a key role in establishing Girls Not Brides, addressing child marriage. Her governance roles include serving as the Board Chair of the Africa Child Policy Forum, the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes, and the Mandela Institute for Development Studies.

As the Chancellor of the University of Cape Town and the African Leadership University, and the President of SOAS, University of London, Graça Machel continues to shape the future of education.

Graça Machel’s commitment to social transformation is evident in her philanthropic endeavors. She founded and serves as the president of the Foundation for Community Development, the Zizile Institute for Child Development, and the Graça Machel Trust. Through these organizations, she advocates for women’s economic empowerment, food security, nutrition, education for all, and good governance.

Throughout her illustrious career, Graça Machel has received numerous awards, including the United Nations’ Nansen Refugee Award, the WHO Gold Medal, and an honorary Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Her global impact and unwavering dedication to improving the fate of women and children have left an indelible mark on the world.

Named among the 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023, Graça Machel stands as a beacon of hope, justice, and equity. Her life’s work reflects a profound commitment to human rights, education, and social transformation. As a member of The Elders and a tireless advocate for the vulnerable, Graça Machel’s legacy continues to inspire positive change on a global scale.

Photo Credit: Face2Face Africa