Former Liberian president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf along with ex-Colombian president, Juan Manuel Santos and the United Nations Human Rights Chief, Zeid Raad Al Hussein have joined the illustrious group called TheElders .

The Elders was founded in 2007 by South Africa’s former president and anti-apartheid icon, Nelson Mandela to ‘support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict and inspire hope where there is despair’.

“Ellen, Juan Manuel and Zeid each bring valuable and distinctive perspectives on issues that are central to our work, from human rights and peace building to gender equality and justice for all,” Mary Robinson, the Chairman of The Elders said.

Responding to her induction, Sirleaf said: “I look forward to working with them to inspire people everywhere, particularly women and girls, to reach for their true potential, break through barriers and pursue their dreams.”

Ellen paid tribute to other African leaders like Desmond Tutu and Kofi Annan who were members of The Elders, a group that has led several interventions in Sudan, South Sudan, Ivory Coast, Zimbabwe, Kenya and North Africa.