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Maria FosterBrazilian businesswoman and chemical engineer
Date of Birth: 26.08.1953
Country:  Brazil |
Content:
- Biography of Maria Foster
- Early Life and Motivation
- Education and Career
- Recognition and Awards
- Personal Life
Biography of Maria Foster
Maria das Gracas Silva, known as Maria Foster, was born on August 26, 1953, in Caratinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil. She grew up in poverty in the favelas, or slums, surrounding Rio de Janeiro. Despite the challenging circumstances, Maria's childhood and youth served as a powerful motivation for her to strive for success.
Early Life and Motivation
Maria spent twelve years in the "Complexo do Alemao" neighborhood, where she had to work to support her mother and pay for her education. She never knew if she would have the opportunity to go to school the next day, but she persisted in earning money by collecting garbage and paying for her textbooks. This humble beginning shaped Maria's determination to climb the corporate ladder and improve her life.
Education and Career
Maria studied chemical engineering at Fluminense Federal University, graduating in 1978 with a bachelor's degree. She continued her studies at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, earning a master's degree in nuclear engineering in 1979. In 1999, Maria obtained an MBA in economics from the Getulio Vargas Foundation, one of Brazil's most prestigious universities.
Maria joined Petrobras, the Brazilian state-run oil company based in Rio de Janeiro, as an intern in 1978. Over the years, she held various managerial positions within the company, displaying her talent and leadership skills. In 2012, Maria became the first woman to lead such a large oil and gas company when she was appointed CEO of Petrobras.
Recognition and Awards
Maria Foster's accomplishments have been widely recognized. In 2007, she was awarded the Order of Rio Branco by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The following year, she was named the Manager of the Year by the Institute of Brazilian Finance Executives. Maria was also honored with the Tiradentes Medal in 2009 by the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro.
In 2011, Maria was appointed a Knight Commander of the Admiralty Order of Merit and received the Medalha da Inconfidencia, the highest honor from the government of Minas Gerais, in recognition of her contributions to the social, cultural, and economic development of the state and Brazil.
Personal Life
Today, Maria Foster lives in a apartment in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, with her husband, Colin Foster, a British citizen, and their two adult children. Copacabana is one of the most famous neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro, known for its beach and vibrant nightlife. Despite the challenges faced by the neighborhood, Maria's family chooses to stay in Copacabana and is popular among the locals.
While Maria Foster's journey from poverty to becoming one of the most influential women in Brazil is remarkable, her success serves as an inspiration for others to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.
