Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva
President
Timeline
Born on 27 August.
Joined the Workers' Party at 17 years of age.
Enrolled for studies of Social Science at the Federal University of Paraná.
Began working at hydroelectric dam Itaipu Binacional on January 1.
Began dating Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Married Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on 18 May in São Paulo.
Became the 38th First Lady of Brazil on 1 January.
Awarded Officer of the Legion of Honour (France) on 28 March.
Biography
Rosângela Lula da Silva, commonly known as Janja, was born on August 27, 1966. She serves as the First Lady of Brazil, being the wife of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Prior to her role as First Lady, she held positions at Itaipu Binacional, where she was an assistant to the Director-General and coordinator of sustainable development programs, and at Eletrobras as a communications and institutional affairs advisor. She joined the Workers' Party at age 17 in 1983. She married President Lula on May 18, 2022, and officially became First Lady on January 1, 2023. As First Lady, she has established an office at the Palace of Planalto, advocates for women's rights, and participates in official events. She is also known for her outspoken public comments.
Early Life & Background
Born in União da Vitória, in the state of Paraná, Rosângela Lula da Silva is the daughter of José Clóvis da Silva (died 2024) and Vani Terezinha Ferreira (died in 2020 from COVID-19). She moved to Curitiba during her childhood. At the age of 17, in 1983, she joined the Workers' Party, marking an early engagement with political movements.
Education
In 1990, Rosângela Lula da Silva enrolled at the Federal University of Paraná, where she pursued studies in Social Science. She further specialized in History during her academic career.
Political & Professional Career
Rosângela Lula da Silva joined the Workers' Party at the age of 17 in 1983. Her most prominent political role began on January 1, 2023, when she became the 38th First Lady of Brazil, serving alongside her husband, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. In this capacity, she established an office at the Palace of Planalto, the presidency's official headquarters. As First Lady, she regularly participates in meetings with heads of states and official events, and has been a strong advocate for women's rights.
Key Achievements & Legacy
Became the 38th First Lady of Brazil on January 1, 2023., Established an office at the Palace of Planalto as First Lady., Awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Rio Branco (Brazil, 2023)., Awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry (Portugal, 2023)., Awarded Officer of the Legion of Honour (France, 2024).