Graça Machel is an African stateswoman whose decades-long professional and public life is rooted in Mozambique’s struggle for self-rule and international advocacy for women and children’s rights., Mozambican freedom-fighter and education reformer Graça Machel joined the Mozambican Liberation Front in 1973 as a schoolteacher. When Mozambique gained its independence in 1975, she became the country’s first Minister of Education and Culture – the only woman in the cabinet., Graca Machel is a remarkable woman whose life has been intertwined with two African nations, Mozambique and South Africa, in her roles as First Lady. Her story is one of resilience, leadership, and a commitment to improving the lives of people in these countries and beyond., Graça Machel is an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights and was made an honorary Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997 for her humanitarian work. She is the only woman in modern history to have served as First Lady of two countries: South Africa and Mozambique., Graça Machel has dedicated her life to improving the fate of women and children, inspiring hope, and building a more just and equitable world for us all., Ms. Machel is a current member of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders who work together for peace and human rights which she co-founded with her husband, former President Nelson.