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Zonta Club of Quirino says NO during the 16 Days of Activism

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The Zonta Club of Quirino, Philippines, dedicated each day of the 16 Days of Activism to an issue that affects women and girls.

A day of global issues
As climate change significantly impacts the world, we are witnessing the effects of flooding from typhoons, unbearable heat caused by rising temperatures, and long-term changes in global climate patterns. In response, the club organized a tree-planting activity at Susong Dalaga, Cabarroguis, Quirino, to restore forests and adopt sustainable practices to protect mountain ecosystems.

The club collaborated with the Municipal Population Office of Cabarroguis, the Municipal Tourism Office, and both the BJMP and BFP of the Province of Quirino to plant seeds that will eventually grow into trees. This initiative aims to restore native flora, combat soil erosion, and provide habitats for local wildlife. It is a collective effort to protect and conserve their natural environment.

A day of outreach
In line with the club’s commitment to providing a comfortable stay for female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) while they are in prison, a 32-inch smart television was delivered to the BJMP Quirino by Zontian Aleah Aniciete-Abaya and Zontian Glenda Garay Mina.

The club is grateful for the opportunity to support the BJMP in this effort. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these PDLs during their temporary time away from home.

A day of giving
The club’s ongoing commitment to donate medicines to the Rural Health Units of Quirino Province highlights our dedication to providing essential medications for the sick, elderly, pregnant women, and children.

With the support of the doctors at each unit, we aim to assist vulnerable members of the barangay who are unable to purchase necessary medications for their daily needs.

On this day of giving, Zontians once again donated medicines to the Municipal Health Unit of Aglipay, Quirino. The donations included vitamins, high blood pressure medications, paracetamol, and more.

Giving is not about the quantity; it reflects our holistic approach to ensuring that those we serve know we are always here to help meet their needs, offering assistance without any conditions.

This embodies the Zonta Spirit.

Zonta Club of Muntinlupa says NO to teenage pregnancy

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  • The club’s 16 Days of Activism includes speakers on laws protecting women and children, with school caravans at seven high schools in Muntinlupa.
  • The club’s 16 Days of Activism includes speakers on laws protecting women and children, with school caravans at seven high schools in Muntinlupa.

The Zonta Club of Muntinlupa, Philippines, was represented by Club President Carol Nielsen, Past Area 5 Director Odette Wallace, and Director Price Enriquez, together with several club members, to conduct a School Caravan on Preventing Teenage Pregnancy, featuring educational sessions, interactive discussions, and youth presentations. Students received guidance on legal protections, respectful conduct, self-awareness, and making informed decisions.

Guest speakers included Atty. Mimi Aguinaldo, who discussed the Safe Spaces Act and Anti-Sexual Harassment Law, and Nurse Claire from the City Health Office, who presented on Adolescent Health and Development. Members of the Muntinlupa Golden Z Club also joined as youth facilitators and assistants.

The club conducted a School Caravan on Preventing Teenage Pregnancy, featuring educational sessions, interactive discussions, and youth presentations. Students received guidance on legal protections, respectful conduct, self-awareness, and making informed decisions.

The caravan was implemented during the 16 Days of Activism, with key visits to seven high school students in Muntinlupa City:
26 Nov 2025
Lakeview Integrated High School | 200 Students
Nov 27 Pedro E Diaz High School | 350 Students
Nov 28 Muntinlupa Cosmopolitan School | 500 Students

1 Dec 2025
Muntinlupa National High School | 200 Students

2 Dec 2025
Muntinlupa Science High School | 300 students

3 December 2025 Lakewood School.of Alabang –
100 students Junior High School

9 December 2025 Sucat Senior High School | 200 Students

The program reached hundreds of Grade 9 and 10 students per day.

Teenage pregnancy is deeply connected to gender-based violence, unequal power dynamics, and limited access to education. By educating adolescents about their rights, legal protections, and health, the caravan addresses root causes of vulnerability—strengthening prevention efforts aligned with Zonta’s mission to end violence against women and girls.
Engaging directly with schools also increases Zonta’s visibility as a committed community partner in youth protection.

How did you achieve your goals for the action?

The club achieved its goals by:
Partnering with legal and health experts
Delivering clear and accessible information to students
Involving youth leaders through the Golden Z Club
Coordinating closely with school administrators to ensure high attendance

Creating an engaging program reinforced with student performances and open dialogue

Muntinlupa’s schools serve diverse and growing youth populations, many of whom face pressures that increase their risk for early pregnancy or exploitation. This program provides vital awareness and practical knowledge that help students make informed decisions, understand their rights, and recognize signs of abuse. These sessions support safer schools and healthier community environments.

Quotes from Attendees”

“This session helped me understand my rights and how to protect myself. The Safe Spaces Act was explained so clearly.” – Grade 10 student, PEDZ

“I learned how important it is to think about my future and make responsible choices.” – Grade 9 student, LIHS

“Zonta’s visit is very helpful. Our students need this kind of guidance.” – School Administrator, Muntinlupa”

Illuminating Hope: Zonta Club of Burbank Area ‘s 16 Days of Activism Journey

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When the first orange lights flickered to life on Burbank City Hall, the Zonta Club of Burbank Area, USA, knew this year’s 16 Days of Activism would be different. It wasn’t just about awareness—it was about transformation.

The club’s journey began on a crisp November evening, with Mayor Nikki Perez standing beside them as they presented a proclamation that would turn their city into a beacon of hope. The orange glow spreading across City Hall and Burbank Water and Power was more than just a color—it was a promise.

The moment that captured their mission came unexpectedly during Burbank’s Holiday in the Park. Amid the festive crowds and twinkling lights, two women approached the club’s booth. Their quiet demeanor spoke volumes. One woman’s eyes filled with tears as she picked up resources about domestic violence support. It was a stark reminder: while people celebrated, others were fighting silent battles.

The club’s march on December 13 will be a powerful testament to community solidarity. Starting at the Burbank Police Department and ending at City Hall, they will walk together—wearing orange, carrying signs, their voices united against gender-based violence.

From illuminated city landmarks to personal stories of resilience, their 16 Days of Activism proved that hope is not just a concept—it’s an action.

Together, Zontians are changing the narrative. Together, we say NO to violence.

Zonta Club of South Auckland expands visibility of Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women

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  • “Waiuku Family Support building display Papakura Public Library display”
  • “Waiuku Family Support building display Papakura Public Library display”

The Zonta Club of South Auckland, Australia, set up two displays at the Papakura Public Library and the Waiuku Family Support Network building. These are prominent locations in the South Auckland community, ensuring that many people will see them. This initiative significantly enhances the visibility of the Zonta Says NO campaign in the area and is strategically placed where the club expects women to visit. The goal is for the displays to reach women who may need support.

A day of outreach

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The Zonta Club of Isabela, Philippines, marked Day three of its November activities with the official launch of Zonta Kabuhayan: Empowering Sustainable Livelihood in San Mariano Isabela, a long-term initiative aimed at advancing economic independence and stability for women.

Held on 27 November, the launch centered on a focused food processing training for unemployed women, conducted at the Camberwell Technical Educational Training and Assessment Center in Zone 3. The program’s inaugural activity represents a key partnership with Camberwell Technical Education Training and Assessment Center, Inc., highlighting the value of skills development as a pathway to sustainable livelihood.

The Zonta Kabuhayan project reflects the club’s commitment to translating advocacy into practical, community-based solutions. By prioritizing economic empowerment, the initiative recognizes that financial independence strengthens overall well-being and enhances personal safety, especially for women facing barriers to opportunity.

Participants and stakeholders expressed strong enthusiasm throughout the event, which underscored months of careful planning, coordination and outreach. The club also extended special recognition to its newly formed Business & Entrepreneurship Committee, whose leadership and operational planning were central to the program’s successful launch.

Club leaders noted that this initiative marks only the beginning of a broader, long-term commitment to helping women build skills, strengthen confidence and grow their own enterprises. As Zonta Kabuhayan moves into its active implementation phase, the organization looks forward to expanding its livelihood programs and fostering sustainable economic growth within the community.

Zonta Club of Antipolo leads motorcade for the Zonta Says NO campaign

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On 25 November, the Zonta Club of Antipolo, Philippines, spearheaded a vibrant and heartfelt motorcade in support of the global Campaign to End Violence Against Women under the banner “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women.” The event brought together women leaders, advocates and supporters from Zonta International District 17, Area 1, with each participating club represented by its president and officers.

The motorcade began at sunrise as Zontians gathered in Antipolo City, decorating their vehicles with orange balloons, banners and messages of empowerment. The convoy traveled through major routes, reaching business districts, communities and public spaces to amplify the call to end gender-based violence. Residents and passersby showed their support along the way, turning the city’s streets into a moving display of solidarity.

The presence of multiple clubs from Area 1 underscored the collective commitment of Zontians to protect women and girls, uphold human rights and strengthen awareness across cities and municipalities. This year’s participation was especially meaningful as club presidents marched—both symbolically and literally—side by side, demonstrating leadership grounded in compassion, courage and collaboration.

Before the motorcade set off, the Zonta Club of Antipolo emphasized the significance of the campaign through short program rites, highlighting Zonta International’s more than 100 years of advocacy. Speakers shared messages of hope, education and empowerment, stressing the essential role of community engagement in breaking the cycle of violence.

As the motorcade concluded, participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to stand together for a cause that inspires collective action around the world. The event also strengthened bonds among Zonta clubs in Area 1 and reaffirmed their shared mission to build a safer and more equitable world where all women and girls can live free from violence.

Through this united effort, the Zonta Club of Antipolo contributes to the global movement—showing that even a single day of action can fuel long-lasting change. Together, Zontians declare: “No to Violence Against Women. Yes to equality, empowerment and hope.”

Inspiring Women: Supporting talents against gender-based violence

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The Zonta Club Parma, Italy, met with Engineer Alessia Ferrari, an engineering professor at the University of Parma specializing in environmental sustainability research. She presented the problems of water and hydrogeological risks, the studies she is conducting and the related potential environmental solutions that benefit the community.

The event was sponsored by the Municipality of Parma and attended by Councilor Daria Jacopozzi. Annamaria Ferrari, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the Gazzetta di Parma, moderated the discussion.

At the close of the program, the Zonta Club Parma club president presented Ferrari with the club’s “Inspiring Woman Award,” recognizing her as a positive role model and a young talent who has achieved excellence in the scientific field.

The club reaffirmed its dedication to advancing women’s full and equal participation in the economy, research and environmental decision-making at both national and local levels. Zontians emphasized the importance of strengthening the role of women and girls as agents of change for climate resilience.

Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women — Talk by Dr. Vivek Venkatesh

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On 4 November, the Zonta Club of New Territories, Hong Kong, gathered for an inspiring evening with Dr. Vivek Venkatesh, Dean of the Faculty of Education at McGill University and UNESCO Co-Chair in the Prevention of Radicalisation and Violent Extremism. His powerful talk on “Social Pedagogy for Resilient, Inclusive Schools: Arts-Based Strategies to Counter Polarization” set the stage for the club’s Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign.

Dr. Vivek, an international scholar and educator renowned for his work in fostering inclusive communities through arts, dialogue and research, shared thought-provoking insights on how empathy and creativity can transform hate into hope. The club was honored to have VIP guests join, showing strong solidarity and support for women’s empowerment and leadership. With 44 passionate participants and Golden Z members adding energy and inspiration, the evening became a celebration of strength, unity and compassion.

Domestic and Family Violence Forum – Let’s Talk About Now

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The Zonta Clubs of Blackall Range Inc, Caloundra City Inc, Maroochy Inc and Noosa Inc, Australia, joined together to plan and host an awareness event at the University of the Sunshine Coast. More than 60 attendees heard from speakers with lived experience as well as presenters from police and legal backgrounds. Held as a precursor to the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the event highlighted the strong advocacy and service role played by Zonta clubs across the region.

Participants shared positive feedback about the program, noting the honesty and clarity offered by the legal speakers and the value of hearing directly from someone with lived experience. Comments included:
“I found the legal speakers incredibly honest and liked their views very much — told it how it is.”
“Great mixture, good to see a lived experience.”
“Thank you for organising and providing the opportunity to converse, network and pull focus to a very important focus area for many sectors.”

Given the strong interest and engagement, the clubs announced plans to repeat the event with a new theme in 2026.

Walk for Dignity! End Period Poverty

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As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Zonta Club I of Colombo, Sri Lanka, held its fitness fundraiser, “Walk for Dignity! End Period Poverty,” on 15 November. The event aimed to raise funds and awareness for menstrual health and hygiene while advancing the global call to end period poverty.

The walk supports the club’s partnership with the Selyn Foundation’s BleedGood program, which promotes menstrual health, sustainable practices and access to eco-friendly, reusable menstrual products for women and girls across Sri Lanka. Through the initiative, Zonta advocates for dignity, education and sustainable solutions that directly impact women’s health and environmental wellbeing.

According to the club, 40–60% of women and girls in Sri Lanka face period poverty, while households spend an estimated 3.5% of their income monthly on menstrual products. 60% of girls miss school during their periods, and approximately 963 million single-use products are discarded each year, underscoring the urgency for sustainable and accessible alternatives.

More than 95 participants, including women, men and supporters from corporate and media partners, joined the walk. Funds raised will support community workshops and the provision of reusable menstrual solutions to women and girls in need.

Learn more here.