With deep sorrow and immense gratitude, we honour the life and legacy of Doris Salah, an extraordinary leader, mentor, and cherished member of the YWCA family. Doris passed away on 19th November 2024 in California, USA, leaving a legacy of service, hope, and love.
A daughter of Jerusalem, Doris was a cornerstone of the YWCA of Palestine, where she served as General Secretary for over four decades. Her leadership was marked by grace, unwavering determination, and a steadfast belief in the power of women to create meaningful change.
She will undoubtedly live on in every project and initiative she championed within the YWCA of Palestine, from vocational training for women to cultural preservation efforts. She was widely regarded as a leader of strength, resilience, and goodness—an educator whose influence will endure for generations.
Doris’s impact reached far beyond Palestine. She passionately advocated for Palestinian women on the global stage, amplifying their voices and championing their rights. As a board member of the World YWCA, she also played a vital role in representing and advancing the movement’s mission worldwide.
Driven by deep care and a vision of peace, Doris’s influence was felt in every community development project and educational programme through her advocacy at the United Nations and with ecumenical networks. Even after retiring, she remained a passionate beacon of hope, bridging international platforms with grassroots movements and speaking truth to power.
To me, Doris was more than a colleague—she was a mentor whose wisdom and support shaped my journey within the YWCA. She believed in the transformative potential of young women and created countless opportunities for them to grow into confident, compassionate leaders. Her warmth, kindness, and faith in humanity left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege to know her.
As we mourn Doris Salah, we also celebrate her remarkable contributions.
Rest in power, Doris. Your dedication reminds us of the power of love and service to create lasting change, and your spirit will continue to guide and inspire us in the work ahead.
