Simone Tebet

Simone Tebet stands as a trailblazer for women in Brazilian politics, achieving multiple historic firsts that have reshaped the landscape of her home state and the federal government. As the first woman mayor of Três Lagoas and the first female vice-governor of Mato Grosso do Sul, she broke glass ceilings that had previously excluded women from executive power in those regions. Her appointment as Minister of Planning and Budget further cemented her status as one of the few women to hold such a critical economic portfolio in Brazil's recent history.Her 2022 presidential run, despite finishing third, introduced the "Third Way" concept to a national audience, offering a centrist alternative in a polarized environment. This achievement highlighted her ability to unite disparate factions and advocate for pragmatic solutions. International recognition from institutions like the World Bank acknowledges her contributions to governance reform and women's rights, solidifying her legacy as a key figure in Brazil's democratic evolution.