"As you celebrate 100 years, every YWCA celebrates with you," Kanyoro told the YWCA staff Wednesday. That includes millions of people, as the YWCA sisterhood stretches across 125 countries and some 3,000 communities world-wide.

Kanyoro, born in Kenya but now a resident of Geneva, Switzerland, where the World YWCA is headquartered, will be the featured guest at tonight's YWCA's Centennial Women's Gathering at the Salt Lake City Main Library, 210 E. 400 South.

Kanyoro, who earned her bachelor's degree at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, has her doctoral degree from the University of Texas, Austin, and a doctor of ministry degree from the San Francisco Theological Seminary. During her tenure at the World YWCA, Kanyoro has made significant contributions toward the fight against HIV and AIDS.

After arriving late Tuesday, Kanyoro spent Wednesday morning touring the charity operations for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Welfare Square, the Humanitarian Service Center and Family History Library, said spokesman Dale Bills.

Kanyoro also had lunch at the Lion House with Kathleen Hughes, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, as well as representatives from LDS Family Services and the Family and Church History Department.

In the afternoon, she made her way to the YWCA's downtown offices to talk with local YWCA staff.

In between, Kanyoro had a moment to explain why the YWCA has such longevity - not just in individual communities, but internationally. This year the international YWCA will mark its 150th anniversary, she said.

The YWCA has survived, Kanyoro explained, because each chapter has local leaders who find solutions that best fit their community.

For example, having a shelter for women who are victims of domestic violence works well in Salt Lake City. But in Nigeria - also celebrating the 100 anniversary of its YWCA - a public shelter would be too dangerous and would get no security help from authorities. In that country, the solution has been a network of safe houses spread throughout a region.

Kanyoro said because of the local control, the YWCA always has been sensitive to the issues of the times, whether it is teen pregnancy or AIDS. And it has helped women from every walk of life no matter their race, religion or economic status.

Kanyoro presence - and words - served as an inspiration to the Salt Lake City staff. "She gives us a power and purpose" said Carrie Romano, chief development officer. "She connects us to how our work fits into the broader picture."

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By Kathy Stephenson
The Salt Lake Tribune