Meet one of the world's most awe-inspiring leaders on The Pathway

Fred Swaniker in Conversation with Graça Machel

What is impact, really? 

From reducing illiteracy by 72% in her country to producing a groundbreaking UNICEF report that changed the way the United Nations reacts in conflict zones, our guest on the next edition of The Pathway generates incredible impact with every step she takes. 

Graça Machel, one of Time’s Top 100 Most Influential People, is an awe-inspiring and exemplary leader. She is a multinational advocate for children and women’s rights and was made an honorary Dame by Queen Elizabeth II. 

Graça was born in Mozambique, where she grew up before leaving to study in Portugal. She was forced to abandon her education to escape possible prison sentencing due to her political activities as a student.

As a true advocate for change, Graça ran the Marxist-based Mozambican Liberation Front headquarters operation and became Minister of Education in Mozambique. She is the co-founder of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders who work together for peace and human rights, and the widow of the former President of Mozambique, Samora Machel, and the South African anti-apartheid icon, Nelson Mandela. 

“As Elders, we strive to use our collective clout to bring people together, amplify the space to give voice to the voiceless, and catalyse action. We understand true leadership as that of service, leadership which promotes equity and dignity for all.” 

– Graça Machel