As part of the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign, the Zonta Club of Hong Kong II, Hong Kong, partnered with the Hong Kong Federation of Women’s Centres to host a speaker event. The event focused on the rights of domestic abuse victims and explored the way forward in addressing this critical issue.

The panel featured a diverse group of experts, including a representative from the Family Conflict and Sexual Violence Policy Unit of the Hong Kong Police Department, a barrister specializing in matrimonial matters, an educational psychologist, an experienced social worker and a hotline volunteer. Each shared insights from their fields, culminating in an engaging Q&A session with the audience.

Approximately 60 participants attended, representing a broad cross-section of the community. The audience included Zonta members, local women, representatives from other NGOs, social workers, teachers and students, all of whom contributed to the dynamic and interactive discussion.

The Zonta Club of Nassau recently hosted a webinar to address gender-based violence in The Bahamas shortly after the tragic rape and murder of 12-year-old Adriel Moxey and 72-year-old Vernencha Butler which took place days apart in the capital New Providence.
The country was left in a state of shock, anger and sorrow, wondering when there will be greater protections for the nation’s women and children. President of the Zonta Club of Nassau Michelle Forbes explained the importance
of bringing awareness to violence against women and children. “We will be learning more about violence, how to have healthy relationships, how to be better persons and how we can overcome trials together. Zonta International launched the “No to Violence” Campaign in 2012 and what we are doing now is raising more awareness through advocacy and education.” Former Police Officer and now CEO of Elle Clarke Media Group, Lynelle Clark spoke to victims by sharing her story of sexual assault. “After forgiving yourself and the assailants, speak your truth. I didn’t have anyone that could relate to me when I was raped. I was a police officer, a detective, I investigated rape and now I found myself on the other side of that table. Now I was being interviewed, now I was the victim, no one was able to talk to me because no one had walked through the complexity of my circumstance.” She continued, “I promised God that when I was healed from this, I would use my voice to share my story because I wanted to become for others what I did not have for myself. Your story isn’t just for you. You can move from trauma to victory. Reclaim your identity.”
The Webinar also featured several panelists including, Antoinette Brown the author of “Raped… A Survivor’s Compelling Story”, woman police constable Patrel Hutcheson, administrator and advisor at the Bahamas Crisis Centre
Cleopatra Christie, counselor at the University of the Bahamas Arnold Martin, and assistant professor of psychology at the University of the Bahamas Dr. Detra Bethell.

http://jonesbahamas.com/zontas-webinar-on-gender-based-violence/

The Zonta Club Dhaka II, Bangladesh, organized an advocacy program at the Baridhara Diplomatic Club, featuring psychologist Dr. Mehtab Khanom, who addressed violence against women and gender equality for Z club and youth members. Past District Governor Rn Zainul Abedin also spoke on gender equality. District 25 Governor Dr. Zareen Delawar shared insights from her medical practice, discussing her work with abuse survivors and emphasizing the importance of promoting gender equality among youth.

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.

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.