President Lula Da Silva of Brazil is leaving the presidency on January first after an impressive transformation of Brazil, both nationally and internationally. Brazil under Lula has gained visibility on the world map, not because of soccer (football) but because of the economic progress President Lula and his government have achieved.

Coming from a modest family, President Lula is a self-made man who has climbed from the bottom to the top and had real impact by lifting the poor out of poverty. It is rare in a democratic country that an exiting President’s popularity can be so high, estimated to 80%.

During his Presidency, we have seen Brazil play an important role in world affairs, increasing cooperation between developing countries and rich countries. President Lula is one of the most admired leaders worldwide and is very loved by his people. He is a true champion of the poor. As the Baluba of Congo say, “A good leader was once a good follower.”