Bachelet, Michelle

In 2006, Michelle Bachelet became the first woman to be elected as president of Chile, despite the country’s staunchly conservative character. After surviving the Pinochet regime, living in exile and fighting successfully to restore democracy in Chile, Michele Bachelet, a physician by profession, was appointed to several high-level positions in the Chilean government. As president, she bolstered Chile’s international relations, reinvigorated the country’s economy and established a sturdy social security system. Currently the head of UN Women, she stands as a symbol of hope and change for women in Chile and around the world.