Yes it is true. Michelle Bachelet was voted the first female President of Chile in 2006.

Although women may be treated like second class citizens in Latin America, Michelle has overcome huge obstacles in a predominately male-driven system. She shows a deep passion for her people and the well-being of her country.

She has survived the brutal dictatorship of Pinochet, including imprisonment in a torture centre in 1975.

A moderate Socialist, she promised to increase social benefits to help reduce the gap between rich and poor. And it seems like her approval is up even in the tough economic times.

One thing is for sure; she has made history, and led Chile with grace and courage. She has won the hearts of her people, and inspired many other women worldwide to rise up and reach new heights in politics.

As Hillary Clinton writes, “She speaks and leads from her heart.”

Maybe we need more “from the heart” delivery on an emotional level in governance. This would certainly balance out political testosterone levels worldwide.

It’s no wonder Michelle Bachelet ranked 15th on the list of the world's 100 most influential people in Time magazine 2008. She’s in a tough business, and she has persevered.