The Zonta Club of Minneapolis St Paul Area, USA, highlighted its commitment to advocacy during the 16 Days of Activism by sharing a range of infographics, compelling articles and news stories across its social media platforms. The club also actively promoted the Zonta Says NO Summit, emphasizing the importance of collective action to end violence against women.
awareness advocacy storytelling
Zonta Club of Liestal advocates for change
The Zonta Club of Liestal, Switzerland, marked the 16 Days of Activism with impactful activities to raise awareness about violence against women. Members hosted a screening of the film Bella Mia in collaboration with regional victim support, who shared insights into their vital daily work.
The club also maintained a strong online presence, posting daily on Facebook and Instagram to amplify the campaign’s message and engage the community.
Zonta Club of Cebu I donates hygiene kits to women and holds health program
The Zonta Club of Cebu I, Philippines, in partnership with the Lapu-Lapu City Jail Female Dormitory, conducted a Reproductive Health and HIV Awareness program, reaching 90 incarcerated women. The initiative provided vital education on reproductive health and HIV prevention, empowering participants with the knowledge to safeguard their well-being and rights despite their challenging circumstances.
To complement the session, hygiene kits were distributed, addressing the scarcity of essential sanitary products in correctional facilities. This practical support reinforced the importance of personal health and hygiene, often overlooked in such settings.
Through this program, the club underscored its commitment to empowering marginalized women, breaking cycles of neglect, and reminding participants of their dignity and worth.
Zonta Clubs of Basel and Liestal’s 16 Days of Activism: Dare to take the step towards a life free of violence
During the 16 Days of Activism, Basel and Liestal, Switzerland, launched impactful initiatives to combat violence against women. The Basel Theater pyramids were illuminated in orange with key messages, while seven animated short videos based on real testimonies, were screened across eleven locations, including cinemas, community centers and the University of Basel.
To reach women in need, 5,000 flyers titled “Dare to Take the Step Towards a Life Free of Violence” were distributed in over 30 locations, including libraries, hospitals and doctors’ offices. A powerful interview with a domestic violence survivor was published in two local magazines, reaching 200,000 readers.
The campaign’s social media efforts on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook featured daily posts, generating thousands of engagements and sparking critical conversations. One member noted, “If only one person has decided to give this topic a space in their thoughts and feelings thanks to the campaign, critical thinking has been initiated, which leads to moving out of violence, it has already been worth it.”
Stop violence against women mini concert
Recognizing the significant issue of violence against women, Zonta Club Bangkok II, Thailand, collaborated with the Golden Z Club of Chulalongkorn University and the music club of Pibool Uppatham School to host a mini-concert advocating for the end of violence against women. The event was held at Siam Square One, an urban open-air shopping complex that is a well-known gathering place, especially for teenagers.
Additionally, an interactive activity invited attendees to draw “Siam Si” fortune slips and express their thoughts on the issue of violence against women on the back of the slips which were then posted on the board. This initiative aimed to foster public participation and raise awareness of this critical social concern.
Zonta Club of Kathmandu: Orange the school
The Zonta Club of Kathmandu, Nepal, in collaboration with partner organizations Ncell Foundation and Saathi Sansthan, conducted an impactful 16 Days of Activism campaign, reaching 1,746 students (1,006 boys and 740 girls) and teachers across 13 schools—4 government and 9 private institutions. The initiative focused on raising awareness about violence against women (VAW) and empowering youth to become advocates for gender equality.
The campaign featured daily sessions conducted in schools, except for the opening and closing days and weekends. Representatives facilitated a 1.5-hour learning session addressing gender-based violence, cybersecurity and Zonta’s global advocacy efforts. Each session concluded with an interactive Q&A to engage students and encourage dialogue.
An art competition invited students to express their understanding of gender-based violence and climate change through creative works. Each school showcased its top five pieces, and the final five winners were recognized at the club’s VAW Closing Ceremony on 10 December.
The program emphasized the importance of reaching Nepal’s youth, who comprise about 40% of the population, as future leaders and catalysts for change. By equipping students with tools to recognize violence, prevent harm and advocate for help, the sessions tackled rising issues such as domestic violence, rape, child marriage and the dangers of technology misuse and social media exploitation.
Zonta Club of Cebu I culminates the 18 Days of Activism by empowering youth and advocating for change
The Zonta Club of Cebu I, Philippines, concluded its impactful 18-day campaign to combat violence against women (VAW) with a dynamic awarding ceremony at One Central Hotel in Cebu City. The event featured the fourth batch of The Outstanding Public High School Graduates Awards, honoring eight exceptional female graduates. Each awardee received ₱20,000, a personalized Z medal and a Certificate of Recognition, recognizing their accomplishments and uplifting the schools they represented. The initiative, led by the Education Committee under past presidents Mathia Baguia and Rufina Tanchan, underscores Zonta’s commitment to empowering young women through education.
The celebration also highlighted the creativity and advocacy of youth through the Z Club and Golden Z Club Poster Making Contest, which encouraged students to raise awareness about violence against women. The VAW Committee, chaired by Zontians Pearle Strolz and VPI Nancy Berame, awarded the top five posters with Z medals, cash prizes and certificates.
The awarding ceremony brought together winners, families and educators, with Club President Melita Ramos at the helm. The day concluded with a festive Christmas party and fellowship, strengthening camaraderie and unity in Zonta’s mission to end violence against women and promote gender equality.
Zonta Clubs in Ghana host light-up ceremony to launch 16 Days of Activism
On 25 November, the Zonta Clubs in Ghana, led by the Zonta Club of Accra Jubilee, launched the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with a Light-Up Ceremony at the National Theatre in Accra. The event, themed around creating a brighter, violence-free future, aimed to raise awareness of gender-based violence (GBV) and inspire collective action to combat this pressing issue.
The ceremony brought together members from Zonta Clubs in Accra, Tema, Accra II and Accra Metropolitan, alongside key stakeholders, media representatives and advocates for women’s rights. Ewurama Dawson Amoah, President of the Zonta Club of Accra Jubilee, opened the event with a call to address the urgent need to combat GBV. The District Governor also delivered powerful remarks, commending the collaborative efforts of Zonta Clubs and stakeholders in advancing women’s rights.
The program included impactful discussions on domestic violence, focusing on its root causes, effects and the importance of collective interventions. These talks aimed to educate and empower attendees to take action within their communities. Following the formal ceremony, a networking cocktail fostered connections among participants, strengthening solidarity in the fight against GBV.
The club leveraged the event to encourage new memberships, emphasizing the importance of growing their network to amplify their advocacy efforts. By uniting stakeholders and raising awareness, the Light-Up Ceremony reaffirmed Zonta’s global commitment to the rights and well-being of women and children.
Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao reflects on legacy and commitment on the day of reflection
On the last day of the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao, Philippines, shared the reflections of three Zontians through their years in Zonta. The club concluded its campaign with a “Glowing Hearts White Christmas” celebration, a heartfelt gathering that celebrated the club’s advocacy efforts and achievements.
Founding Legacy: A Journey of Transformation
Fondly called “Manang Edna” by the younger members, a founding member of the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao shared her reflections on the club’s 34-year journey. Established on 8 June 1990, under the leadership of Charter President Samia Abraham Henrage, the club has consistently championed the advancement of women and girls. Known as the club’s “living archive,” she has preserved countless stories of the club’s journey, from its modest beginnings to its impactful advocacy campaigns. She takes great care in preserving memorabilia, such as Zonta pins and T-shirts, which she refers to as cherished symbols of the milestones the club has achieved.
“I believe that every woman and girl we empower is a step closer to a better world,” Edna shared. Despite stepping away from formal leadership, she remains an active participant in the club’s mission, attending events, meetings and outreach programs. She vowed to devote her remaining strength to ensuring that the club’s legacy continues to shine brightly for generations to come.
Dedication Across Decades
Zontian Marietta Gadduang-Reyes, fondly called “Zis Connie,” shared her three-decade-long journey with the club. Inducted in 1992, she quickly rose through the ranks, serving as the club’s president from 2002 to 2004. In this role, she spearheaded numerous initiatives, from advocacy campaigns to community service projects, always keeping the empowerment of women and girls at the forefront.
Over the years, Connie has represented the club in area meetings and district conventions, bringing recognition to the club’s initiatives. “Leadership with purpose” has been a recurring theme in her Zonta journey, and she expressed pride in witnessing the club’s growth, fueled by the dedication of its members.
Connie’s unwavering commitment to Zonta’s mission is evident in her active involvement in the club’s ongoing projects. She draws strength from the camaraderie of her fellow Zontians, finding fulfillment in the collective efforts to create a positive impact in the community. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “My story is one of hope and dedication. I hope it will continue to inspire others to lead with selflessness and to create a legacy of empowerment and service for generations to come.”
Championing Women’s Empowerment
Zontian Mila Catabay-Lauigan, who served as a past president and Area 4 Director recounted her impactful journey with the club, which began in 1996. Recognizing the need to revitalize the club during her presidency in 2008, she led efforts to rebuild membership and reintroduce engaging activities. Her leadership resulted in a resurgence of energy and purpose within the club, paving the way for its current success.
Under Mila’s guidance, the club expanded its membership by recruiting influential leaders and reactivating former members. She also initiated dynamic programs aligned with Zonta International’s biennial goals, ensuring the club’s alignment with global advocacy efforts.
Beyond her presidency, Mila has held key roles within Zonta International, including serving as District Vice Chair of the Membership and Leadership Development Committees and establishing new Zonta clubs across the Philippines. She remains a driving force within the club, dedicated to ensuring its growth and sustainability.
Culmination of 16 Days of Activism
The Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao concluded its 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with the “Glowing Hearts White Christmas” celebration, a heartfelt gathering that celebrated the club’s advocacy efforts and achievements.
President Josefina T. Sedano emphasized the importance of teamwork, camaraderie and resource-sharing in sustaining the club’s impactful initiatives. She thanked the members for their unwavering support, highlighting how their dedication enables the club to continue its mission of empowering women and promoting gender equality.
Area 4 Director Racquel Reyes-Aglaua praised the club’s leadership and recognized the efforts of the committee chairs and members who made the campaign a success. She called for continued unity and engagement, underscoring the importance of collective action in advancing women’s rights.
The celebration featured recognition of outstanding members, parlor games, and raffle draws, creating a lively atmosphere that strengthened the bonds among the members. As the event concluded, the club celebrated not only its accomplishments but also the spirit of unity and compassion that drives its advocacy for a more equitable and inclusive society, fostering a joyful atmosphere of camaraderie. The event underscored the club’s unity and shared vision for a more equitable society.
Zonta Club of Port Macquarie Inc participates in golf day fundraiser
On 1 December, the Zonta Club of Port Macquarie Inc, Australia, joined 40 players at Emerald Downs Golf Course for a 4-person Ambrose event to raise funds for Liberty Family and Domestic Violence Specialist Service. The event successfully raised AU$1,800, which has been donated to Liberty to support Christmas referrals for families in need.
Founded in 1980 by a grassroots group of women, Liberty began as the first local refuge and has since grown into a specialist support service, leading the community in women’s safety and empowerment.
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