About
Leymah Roberta Gbowee is a Liberian peace activist who led the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace, a non-violent movement that played a critical role in ending the Second Liberian Civil War in 2003. Her work helped pave the way for peaceful elections in 2005, which led to Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's presidency. Gbowee's dedication to peace and women's rights earned her the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize, shared with Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Tawakkul Karman. She continues to be a powerful voice for peace and justice, advocating for women's participation in peacebuilding around the world. Gbowee is an inspiration to many for her courage and commitment to non-violent activism in the face of conflict.
Career Timeline
Women's Peace Movement Success
Gbowee's leadership of the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace played a crucial role in ending the Second Liberian Civil War. Her grassroots activism gained international attention and established her as a peace advocate.
Co-Founding WIPNET
Co-founding the Women Peace and Security Network Africa (WIPNET) expanded her influence across the continent. Her organizational leadership began building a platform for sustained advocacy work.
Founding Gbowee Peace Foundation
Establishing the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa to provide educational opportunities for young West African women demonstrated her commitment to long-term change. The foundation attracted donor support and grants.
Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Winning the Nobel Peace Prize alongside Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Tawakkul Karman brought global recognition and substantial prize money. The award dramatically elevated her platform and speaking fee potential.
International Speaking Circuit Growth
Post-Nobel recognition led to numerous speaking engagements, book deals, and consultancy opportunities worldwide. Her memoir and advocacy work provided steady income streams.
Continued Global Advocacy Work
Gbowee continued her work promoting women's participation in peacebuilding through foundation programs and international partnerships. Her sustained advocacy maintained her relevance in global peace movements.
Nobel Laureate Peace Activist
Fifteen years after winning the Nobel Peace Prize, Gbowee remains an influential voice for peace and women's rights through the Gbowee Peace Foundation and international advocacy. While well-known in peace and humanitarian circles and highly respected for ending a civil war, her mainstream global recognition is more limited, placing her as a solid B-tier figure.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026