It took Kofi Atta Annan (1938-) almost 40 years to work his way up the United Nations ladder, beginning as an administrative and budget officer in 1962 and rising to the top rung as Secretary General in 1997, the first black African elected to the position.

"Man doesn't know what he is capable of until he is asked," said Annan who has dedicated his life to the community of nations and is known for his compassion and straightforward honesty.

Born in Kumasi, central Ghana, Annan is the U.N.'s seventh leader. He and the U.N. were recipients of the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts to achieve peace and security in the world. "Humanity is indivisible," said Annan.

"Never walk into an environment and assume that you understand it better than the natives," he said in an interview with U.S. News & World Report. "You have to listen and look around. Otherwise you can make some very serious mistakes."

The world's top diplomat gathered praise for focusing attention on poverty, human rights, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic. "You should never underestimate the power of prayer," he said.

An innovator known for calm political acumen, he revitalized the U.N. by streamlining bureaucracy and creating better lines of authority with more accountability.

"In the 21st century, I believe the mission of the United Nations will be defined by a new, more profound awareness of the sanctity and dignity of every human life, regardless of race or religion," he said.

The greatest power is education.