Zonta Club of Kauai, USA, and Zonta Club of Hanalei, USA, members, Kauai County Council members, community agencies and supporters came together for Mayor Derek Kawakami’s message and reading of the 16 Days of Activism Proclamation at the Kauai County Rotunda. The club advocacy chair and co-chair presented “10 Things men can do against gender-based violence.”
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Zonta District 17 Area 5 officially opened the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on 25 November at the AIM Conference Center, Makati City.
Area 5 Director Susan Lim delivered the welcome remarks, calling on Zontians and partners to continue championing women’s rights and supporting survivors. This was followed by the Acknowledgment of Dignitaries by Vice Area 5 Director Eleanor Soriano, who highlighted the importance of inter-club unity in sustaining the advocacy.
A major highlight of the kickoff was an in-depth forum facilitated by Dr. Gayle Antes, Co-Founder of Eunoia Philippines. Expert panelists shared critical insights on the link between mental health challenges and domestic violence. Speakers included: Dr. Gail Galang, Chairperson, Department of Psychology, Miriam College Dr. Shyne Mangulabnan, Co-Founder, Eunoia Philippines Anamabel Ugarte Garcia and Women’s Crisis Center Attorney Arleen T. Reyes, Assistant Solicitor General. The panel underscored the urgent need for stronger support systems, trauma-informed care and continued advocacy to protect vulnerable women and children.
The audience was also treated to a compelling intermission performance by Ballet Philippines.
Participants took part in the Pledge of Unity with Like-Minded Organizations, reinforcing the message: “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women and Children.” This was followed by a Candle Lighting Ceremony, an emotional moment signifying hope and collective responsibility to illuminate the fight against gender-based violence.
Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Philippines, Club President Joanne Zapanta-Andrada closed the event with a message of gratitude and a call for sustained involvement throughout the 16-day campaign. She reminded everyone that Zontians must continue to be powerful voices and compassionate advocates for women’s safety, dignity and empowerment.
The Zonta Club of Dallas, USA, is once again partnering with the Dallas Library at the Fretz Park Branch for all 16 days of their “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women” campaign. Members will engage with patrons, distribute Zonta merchandise, and share important facts and figures about domestic violence in the Metroplex, Texas, and the United States. Raising awareness is the first step toward elimination.
Patrons are invited to “Sign the Pledge” and add a “Foot” to the wall, where they can write a word or two of hope or encouragement regarding domestic violence. Both the club and the library aim to “fill the wall” with these messages. Additionally, a glass case displays spray-painted orange shoes of various kinds as part of the “Put Yourself in HER Shoes” installation, designed to catch the eye of passersby and spark interest and questions.
By the end of the 16 days, the club hopes to engage with more than 1,000 individuals. All club members will work multiple shifts throughout this period.
To raise public awareness about the serious issue of violence against women, Zonta Halle Pajottenland, Belgium, is bringing its campaign prominently into the public space. Across the region, orange scarves are appearing on statues and in local businesses, each accompanied by a flyer that clearly calls for an end to violence against women and provides the contact details for helpline 1712.
Helpline 1712 offers free and anonymous support via phone, chat, and email to anyone with questions or concerns related to violence. Professional counsellors are available to provide information, guidance, and assistance.
The campaign is also gaining visibility through local bakeries. Participating bakeries are distributing their bread in special “Zonta Says NO” bread bags — an additional reminder that violence against women is never acceptable.
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.
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”
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.
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.
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.
The Zonta Club of Alytus, Lithuania, joined a united community effort on 25 November to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, responding to an invitation from the Alytus Soroptimist Club to stand together against gender-based violence.
The Soroptimist-led initiative took place at the historic “Dainava” cinema, where attendees were welcomed with packets of orange flower seeds labeled “Plant your strength, let your peace grow.” The symbolic gesture encouraged participants to nurture personal resilience and hope. The film “There’s Still Tomorrow” was screened, highlighting the importance of awareness, courage and speaking out in the face of violence.
A variety of international service clubs—including Zonta, Rotary, LIONS Women and Dzūkija LIONS—joined the event, strengthening the message that preventing violence is a shared responsibility. The Dainava cinema building was illuminated in orange, a global symbol of solidarity with survivors. The clubs extended their gratitude to the Alytus Cultural Center for facilitating the illumination.
As part of the awareness campaign, designer Violeta Sūdžiuvienė’s boutique Bliss by Violeta created a striking visual installation: a mannequin dressed in orange, symbolizing unity with women affected by violence. Members of the Zonta Club of Alytus took photos with the mannequin to help amplify the message.
Join us in saying NO 