We have known Hillary Clinton both professionally and personally for close to 20 years, dating back to before President Bill Clinton's first trip to Africa in 1998 - a trip that they both acknowledge changed their lives and gave considerable meaning to their post-White House years and to the activities of the Clinton Foundation.

In this quote, Valerie Plame reflects on her long relationship with Hillary Clinton, both on a personal and professional level, spanning nearly 20 years. She highlights a pivotal moment in their lives: the 1998 trip to Africa taken by President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton. This trip, as Plame notes, was a life-changing experience for both Clintons and played a significant role in shaping their post-White House activities, particularly through the work of the Clinton Foundation.

Plame underscores how the African trip not only impacted the Clintons personally but also gave new meaning to their efforts in the years following Bill Clinton’s presidency. The experience in Africa helped redefine their post-presidential years, influencing their philanthropic work and their broader global impact. It was during this time that the Clintons began focusing more heavily on international development and humanitarian efforts, with the Clinton Foundation becoming a central part of their legacy.

The quote suggests that the trip was a turning point that deeply shaped the Clintons' outlook on global issues and their desire to make a positive impact. By working together on initiatives such as the Clinton Foundation, they were able to channel their experiences into global outreach, focusing on issues like health, poverty, and education. This shift towards philanthropy and global engagement became a defining aspect of their work in the years following the presidency.

In conclusion, Valerie Plame’s quote highlights the profound effect that the 1998 Africa trip had on Hillary and Bill Clinton, shaping their personal lives and influencing their future endeavors, particularly through the Clinton Foundation. The quote illustrates the deep connection between personal experiences and the motivation to create meaningful change in the world.