Graça Machel, born on 17 October 1945 in rural Mozambique, is an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights and a prominent humanitarian. Machel was the youngest of six children in a family of modest means. She grew up in a Portuguese colony, and her early life was shaped by the fight for Mozambique's independence. After completing her education in Mozambique, she received a scholarship to study at the University of Lisbon in Portugal, where she became politically active, joining the Mozambican Liberation Front (FRELIMO).

Following Mozambique's independence from Portugal in 1975, Machel became the country’s first Minister of Education and Culture. In this role, she focused on increasing literacy and expanding educational opportunities, particularly for women and children. Her work in education made a significant impact, as she was credited with doubling the enrollment of school children in Mozambique during her tenure.

Graça Machel was married to Samora Machel, the first President of Mozambique, until his death in a plane crash in 1986. Widowed, she continued her activism, further gaining recognition as a global leader in humanitarian issues. Her efforts led her to be appointed as an expert by the United Nations to conduct a groundbreaking study on the impact of armed conflict on children in 1996. This report raised global awareness of the plight of children in war zones and spurred efforts to improve their protection.

Machel’s second marriage, in 1998, was to Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa and one of the world’s most revered figures for his role in ending apartheid. This marriage united two of Africa's most significant political families, but Machel continued her independent work as a global advocate for social justice.

Throughout her life, Graça Machel has remained committed to advancing the rights of women and children across Africa and globally. She has served in various roles, including chairing international organizations and leading initiatives aimed at ending child marriage, improving maternal health, and promoting education. She is the founder of the Graça Machel Trust, an organization that advocates for the empowerment of women and children.

Machel is also a member of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007 to promote peace and human rights. She continues to use her platform to champion gender equality, children’s rights, and social justice.

Her life's work has earned her numerous awards and honors, including honorary doctorates from leading universities and recognition from global institutions for her commitment to humanitarian causes.

REFERENCE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gra%C3%A7a_Machel