Shishou
If the original Kino was the one who changed Kino's life, then Shishou is the person who solidified that change. By giving Kino guidance at such a vulnerable point in her life, she was able to ensure that Kino could survive on her own, and is someone who Kino will always remember.
Shishou first found Kino alone and scared in the woods. Having lived a sheltered life for so long, Kino had no idea how to cope in the wild, and no tools to do so. Shishou essentially adopted Kino and taught her everything from how to use a gun and ride a motorcycle, to how to deal with strangers and how to be a traveler. For Kino, Shishou was an amazing resource and someone she greatly respected.
One of the most important roles that Shishou plays, aside from being a teacher, is also that of a mother. Kino never had a great relationship with her parents, and they even tried to kill her for going against their opinions. Kino never had the love and guidance that a mother should provide, which is where Shishou comes in. Shishou is not just a teacher to Kino, but she's a mother figure who will guide her, but let her fall and get up on her own. A great example of that is how she introduced Kino to the original Kino's mother. After finding the country where a traveler with a coat similar to the original Kino used to live, Shishou gave Kino the chance to decide whether or not to go.
Kino: Even so, I would still like to go.. I want to.. is that wrong?
Shishou: No, I will not stop you. This is your life, after all.
Not only that, but Shishou serves as a role model for Kino as well. Shishou is a great example of a strong woman- independant, tough and will never be talked into anything she doesn't want to. When Kino arrived at her place, she was still very immature and naive, however Shishou showed her how to survive. Although Kino adopted the original Kino's persona, quite a bit of her personality is heavily influenced by Shishou.
Shishou guided Kino at a very difficult time, and it's because of that that Kino was able to grow into the strong person that she is. Shishou's spirit will always live on in Kino, and for that I am very grateful.