Dr Musimbi Kanyoro has been Chair of the UWC International Board since 2019. She is a global leader in philanthropy, governance and social change, with extensive experience shaping international organisations to be more effective, inclusive and impactful. She currently serves as an independent member of the London School of Economics Council and is a member of the UN Global Compact board.

With a career spanning over four decades, Musimbi has led and transformed organisations at the highest levels. She was President and CEO of the Global Fund for Women (2011–2019), where she helped grow the foundation’s resources to USD 150 million. Before that, she served as General Secretary (CEO) of the World YWCA, making history as the first non-white leader in the organisation’s 150-year history. Under her leadership, the YWCA expanded its global impact, ensuring that more than 50% of its top leadership positions were held by young women under the age of 40. She has also held leadership roles with the David and Lucile Packard Foundation and the Lutheran World Federation.

Musimbi is a widely published author, having written, edited and co-edited numerous books and articles on gender, human rights and development. Her academic background includes a PhD in Linguistics and a Doctor of Ministry, with further studies at Harvard Divinity School.

Throughout her career, Musimbi has been a driving force for change. She has built inclusive, high-performing boards, developed innovative programmes and championed collaborative approaches to global challenges. She has delivered speeches at the UN General Assembly, mentored emerging leaders and played a pivotal role in high-level philanthropic negotiations. She leads with trust and strategic vision, fostering environments where people can thrive. Her ability to transform organisations and drive sustainable impact is why she is consistently sought after for leadership roles and advisory positions on the global stage.