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Zonta Club of Tartu advocates against violence through scholarship and awareness campaign

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Each year, the Zonta Club of Tartu, Estonia, recognizes a female professional who has made exceptional contributions to addressing intimate partner violence. The scholarship supports self-improvement or further studies for individuals in fields such as investigation, social work, child protection, education, psychology, and law enforcement.

This year’s scholarship was awarded to Annika Antšak, who works tirelessly with children who have experienced violence. Annika plans to use the scholarship to pursue a micro degree in therapeutic arts, equipping her with additional tools to support vulnerable children. The award was presented at the club’s November meeting honoring Annika’s dedication and commitment to making a difference.

Every year during the “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women” campaign, the club takes to the streets, dressed in orange, walking the symbol of infinity across the bridges of Tartu. Carrying posters with the message “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women,” the walk symbolizes solidarity and raises awareness about the fight to end gender-based violence.

On 30 November six club members and two supporters proudly participated in this year’s walk, which also included a visit to the town square. The walk fosters camaraderie among participants and also serves as a visible reminder to those who may need support that they are not alone.

To further amplify the message, several businesses and public institutions in Tartu illuminated their buildings with orange lights on 25 November, demonstrating their support for the campaign.

“This walk is about being seen and inspiring others to think, act, and be better,” said a club representative. “It’s especially important before the holidays, a time that can be stressful or lonely for many.”

Zonta Club of Berlin hosts lecture and discussion on new German law against child marriage

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Dr. Monique Martinek delivered a lecture on the legal implications of the new German law regarding underage individuals, a topic she focused on for her Ph.D. She highlighted how the number of underage marriages in Germany has risen dramatically since the so-called refugee crisis, making it a pressing issue to address.

The lecture and subsequent networking session were well-received by the audience and helped strengthen the brand of Zonta Club of Berlin, Germany. The event was hosted at the scenic Kreuzberger Kinderstiftung, which generously provided the venue free of charge.

Zonta Club of Jyväskylä lights the city orange

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The Zonta Club of Jyväskylä, Finland, partnered with local organizations to promote advocacy during the Zonta Says NO campaign. Key city landmarks, including Hospital Nova and Congress Centre Paviljonki, were illuminated in orange. On 25 November, the club hosted an event at the Nero steps, featuring a speech by the president of UN Women Jyväskylä, a performance by the Kipinät choir and refreshments. Attendees dressed in orange and lit the steps with candles to raise awareness for gender equality.

Zonta Club of Minneapolis St Paul Area utilizes social media for the 16 Days of Activism

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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.

Zonta Clubs of Basel and Liestal’s 16 Days of Activism: Dare to take the step towards a life free of violence

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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

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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.

A call to action: Protecting migrant care workers

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The Zonta Club of Taipei Cosmo, Taiwan, continues its dedicated efforts to support migrant care workers in Taiwan, addressing critical challenges through advocacy, collaboration and community-based initiatives.

Aligned with the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign, the club marked the 16 Days of Activism by raising awareness and partnering with the Rerum Novarum Center on Human Rights Day, to assist runaway migrant workers who escaped abuse.

The club also extended support to shelters for pregnant workers and mothers, collaborating with Taiwan Harmony Home to provide refuge and resources. Recognizing the needs of undocumented children born to migrant workers, the club launched programs ensuring access to basic care, education and health services.

Through partnerships with NGOs and public outreach, the club calls for stronger laws, fair treatment by employers and greater societal inclusion to protect migrant workers’ rights and dignity. Their ongoing efforts underscore the power of advocacy and collective action in building a just and compassionate society.

Zonta Club of Accra Jubilee donates to the Ark Foundation Ghana

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On 10 December, the Zonta Club of Accra Jubilee, Ghana, demonstrated its commitment to empowering survivors of gender-based violence by donating essential items to the Ark Foundation Ghana. Led by President Ewurama Dawson Amoah, the club provided baby clothes, shoes and apparel for women, men and children displaced by abuse.

“This gesture aligns with our goal to create a world free from violence, where women and children can thrive in safe, supportive environments,” said Dawson Amoah during the donation. “We are honored to contribute to the transformative work of the Ark Foundation.”

Madam Blessing Agboada of the Ark Foundation expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing the immediate comfort the donation would bring to beneficiaries. The event fostered collaboration, with Zonta members offering prayers for strengthened partnerships in the fight against gender-based violence.

This initiative highlights the club’s unwavering dedication to advancing the welfare of women and children and supporting the Ark Foundation’s vital mission to restore hope and dignity to survivors.

Zonta Clubs in Ghana host light-up ceremony to launch 16 Days of Activism

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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

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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.