I have always been a determined and daring person. It is how I survived the civil war as a young teenager. That determination compels me to run for t… - MacDella Cooper

One is never comfortable in life after losing a father to war or [witnessing its] atrocities. Even though my job at Ralph Lauren gave me the opportunity to travel the world, my thoughts never [wandered] far from Liberia’s sufferings. MCF was my initial and official effort to help those who were not fortunate enough to escape Liberia during the civil war. It was my way of giving back to a country that deserved more.

I am a native Liberian who was forced to leave her motherland [during the civil war]. We don’t have the luxury of encouraging divisiveness among ourselves, so I navigate this topic by putting my country and her pressing needs first.

Her presidency inspired me and I believe it will continue to inspire women in Africa. Nevertheless, structural obstacles impede progress. The glass ceiling in politics remains and much work is left to address the lack of opportunities, justice and equity for women. Though the election of President Johnson-Sirleaf may have opened some doors, male-dominated political arenas and the belief that women cannot hold high political positions persist.