Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson was recognized for her leadership and global influence at the Sundance Film Festival Utah Women’s Leadership Celebration on Jan. 30.
Johnson leads one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the world, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Relief Society. It consists of nearly 8 million members.
“This isn't all about me, but it's every bit about the good members of relief society and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who volunteer their time and their talents and their resources to bless the lives of our brothers and sisters all over the world," Johnson said.
Since becoming the Relief Society General President in 2022, Johnson has dedicated her efforts to supporting communities around the world.
This event, a partnership between the Sundance Institute and Zions Bank, is in its 12th year of recognizing women leaders for their meaningful contributions in their fields.
The celebration took place in downtown Salt Lake City on Thursday, Jan. 30. Johnson was one of seven women to be celebrated at this event.
Rob Brough, vice president of marketing and communications for Zions Bank, said it is important to recognize the leadership these women provide in their communities and around the world.
“It’s a real honor and privilege for us to recognize and honor President Johnson for the incredible work that she’s doing in serving around the world,” Brough said.
Brough highlighted that many people may not fully realize the impact of the Relief Society and the Church’s work worldwide.
“For us to be able to shine a little bit of spotlight on that — we’re thrilled to do that,” Brough said.
The Church stated that Johnson has played a key role in advancing its humanitarian efforts, particularly those aimed at improving the well-being of women and children.
“As part of her volunteer ministry, President Johnson has made it her mission to strengthen women and children around the world both spiritually and physically,” the Church said in their report of the event.
Johnson emphasized that she believes global progress begins with women and children. She believes their needs should be a top priority.
“We are convinced that when we bless a woman, we bless a family, a community and a nation,” Johnson said. “And likewise, when we bless a child, we have invested in the future.”
Johnson stated that the Relief Society plays a key role in improving the well-being of women and children, emphasizing that when they have invested in women, they “have invested in and blessed a family and a community and a nation.”
President Johnson oversees projects that enhance access to maternal and newborn care, child nutrition, immunizations and literacy. In 2024, she visited humanitarian sites and addressed needs in countries including Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Uganda.
Relief Society members Jamila Hubbard and Andrea McConkie expressed that they see Johnson as a true example of service and love.
Hubbard said that seeing Johnson’s work sets an example for her, and others, to follow.
“Seeing Camille up there and knowing of her leadership and all of the things that she's involved in with the Church, the help that she does for others who need help, it helps me to recognize that we can do the same thing,” Hubbard said.
McConkie described Johnson as someone who deeply understands the importance of offering relief to others through Christ’s teachings.
“She is the first example of showing the most love to everybody she meets,” McConkie said.
Many lives have been blessed thanks to President Johnson's leadership, the Church's statement said.
“I think that her example is something that we should all follow,” Hubbard said.