Who Is Ellen Johnson Sirleaf? Age, Biography and Wiki
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, born on October 29, 1938, in Monrovia, Liberia, is a pioneering figure in African politics. She served as the 24th President of Liberia from 2006 to 2018, making her the first elected female head of state in Africa. Known for her dedication to peace, democracy, and women's rights, Sirleaf is a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded in 2011 for her efforts to promote peace in Liberia after years of civil conflict. At 86 years old in 2025, she continues to be an influential figure in global politics and women's empowerment.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 29, 1938 |
| Age | 86 Years |
| Birth Place | Monrovia, Liberia |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | Liberia |
Popularity
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf stands approximately 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall. While her precise weight is not publicly stated, she maintains a healthy lifestyle, which is evident in her active engagement in social and political matters even at her advanced age. Her body stats reflect a dignified presence that commands respect.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf remains unmarried. She was previously married to James Sirleaf, with whom she has three sons: Charles, Robert, and William. Though she dedicates much of her time to social causes and public appearances, her family remains a crucial part of her life. Sirleaf has expressed that her sons are a source of great pride and joy, supporting her endeavors throughout her political career.
While not in fact Americo-Liberian in terms of ancestry, because of her parents' upbringing and her own education in the West, Sirleaf is considered to be culturally Americo-Liberian, or assumed to be Americo-Liberian. Her parents both grew up in Monrovia, a center of Americo-Liberian influence, after being born in poor rural areas. Sirleaf does not identify as such.
Net Worth and Salary
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has an estimated net worth of around $10 million as of 2025. This wealth stems from her lengthy political career, her time as a consultant for various international organizations, and her involvement in social enterprises. In addition to her presidential salary, Sirleaf has contributed to several humanitarian projects and initiatives, further enhancing her financial portfolio through her investments in various sectors.
Career, Business and Investments
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's career spans over several decades, focusing primarily on public service, political leadership, and advocacy. After earning her degree in accounting and business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she worked with reputable organizations, including the World Bank and the United Nations. Her presidency revolutionized Liberia through various reforms aimed at economic recovery, reconciliation, and rebuilding of democratic institutions. Post-presidency, Sirleaf remains active in global initiatives, serves on several boards, and invests in education and health projects aimed at uplifting women in Africa.
She was educated at the College of West Africa. She completed her education in the United States, where she studied at Madison Business College, the University of Colorado Boulder, and Harvard University. She returned to Liberia to work in William Tolbert's government as Deputy Minister of Finance from 1971 to 1974.
Later, she worked again in the West, for the World Bank in the Caribbean and Latin America. In 1979, she received a cabinet appointment as Minister of Finance, serving to 1980.
Social Network
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is highly active on social media, using platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to communicate her thoughts on pressing global issues and to empower the next generation of leaders. She engages with her followers through informative posts, sharing insights on leadership, governance, and women's rights. Her active presence online allows her to connect with a global audience and encourage positive discourse.
Master Sergeant Samuel Doe, a member of the indigenous Krahn ethnic group, seized power in a military coup on 12 April 1980; he ordered the assassination of Tolbert and execution by firing squad of all but four members of his Cabinet. The People's Redemption Council took control of the country and led a purge against the previous government.
Sirleaf initially accepted a post in the new government as the President of the Liberian Bank for Development and Investment. She fled the country in November 1980 after publicly criticising Doe and the People's Redemption Council for their management of the country.
Education
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's educational background laid the foundation for her impactful career. She attended the University of Liberia before transferring to the United States, where she completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Later, she pursued postgraduate studies, further enhancing her knowledge and expertise in economics and public administration, crucial for her future roles in Liberian politics and international organizations.
In 2025, Sirleaf remains a beacon of hope and resilience, continuing her legacy as a transformational leader and advocate for human rights and democracy. Her journey inspires countless individuals worldwide, proving that leadership transcends age and challenges.
She attended the College of West Africa, a preparatory school, from 1948 to 1955. She married James Sirleaf when she was seventeen years old. The couple had four sons together, and she was primarily occupied as a homemaker. Early on in their marriage, James worked for the Department of Agriculture, and Sirleaf worked as a bookkeeper for an auto-repair shop.
