Zonta clubs in Area 1, District 20 hosts film screening on gender-based violence

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Zonta clubs in Area 1, District 20, Finland, jointly organized a film screening and panel discussion on the themes of the film on the opening day of the Zonta Says NO campaign.

The clubs screened Niina Vuorisara’s documentary film, Only One of Us, followed by a discussion led by highly knowledgeable panelists. They explored the film’s focus on sibling violence and the broader theme of violence against women. The panelists were professionals experienced in crisis situations involving youth, women and families.

The film had a profound impact on the audience, poignantly showcasing a little girl’s experience of loneliness and insecurity. It illustrated how the violence directed at her went unnoticed for several years. Despite the heavy themes, the film carried a hopeful message: recovery from such harsh experiences is possible. While the topics were indeed tragic, there was also a sense of fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of not ignoring these issues. One panelist’s words were particularly memorable: “It is our duty to intervene in injustices when we see them, whether we are an aunt in the supermarket lobby, a neighbor, or a friend.”

Zonta Club of Janesville brings attention to gender-based violence

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On 25 November, the Zonta Club of Janesville, USA, accepted a Resolution from the City of Janesville that recognizes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign reached people in a variety of ways.

The City of Janesville lit the bridge in the Arise Town Square orange to bring awareness to the campaign; the club engaged in a social media campaign and posted an “Orange Lady” outside of the Womans’ Club on S. Jackson Street to bring awareness to the characteristics of Gender-Based Violence and the ways to help someone dealing with domestic violence.

“The Zonta Club of Janesville says NO to violence against women through its support of the YWCA, its work to make the world a better place for women and girls, and by bringing awareness to this important issue in our community,” said Club President Lori Hanewold. “There is no place in our society for violence.”

Zonta Club Montevideo advocates for domestic violence awareness through city bus campaign

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To raise awareness and provide support for victims of domestic violence, the Zonta Club Montevideo, Uruguay, launched a citywide poster campaign as part of the 16 Days of Activism.

Bright orange posters featuring Zonta’s logo and a helpline number were placed inside buses, ensuring the message reaches women in need throughout the community. Securing permission from bus companies also served to introduce Zonta’s mission and the goals of the campaign to a broader audience.

Zonta Club of Cebu I hosts poster contest to raise awareness on violence against women

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As part of the Zonta Says NO campaign, the Zonta Club of Cebu I, Philippines, held its third annual poster-making contest. 11 young artists from the club’s Golden Z and Z Club, representing the University of the Visayas, Benedicto College and Tulay National High School, created compelling posters highlighting the urgency of the campaign and violence against women.

Judging took place, with submissions evaluated for creativity, relevance and impact. Winners will be recognized during the campaign’s culmination event on 12 December at One Central Hotel. This initiative demonstrates Zonta’s commitment to empowering youth and leveraging art to advocate for a violence-free society.

Zonta Club Bozen-Bolzano advocates through action and awareness

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In support of the Zonta Says NO campaign, the Zonta Club Bozen-Bolzano, Italy, took action with visible initiatives, including participating in the Women’s Run on 24 November and organizing the orange illumination of key buildings in the city.

These efforts aim to raise awareness about gender-based violence and demonstrate the club’s commitment to advocating for a world free from violence against women and girls.

Raising voices for a safer, sustainable future

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The Zonta Club of Dhaka IV, Bangladesh, hosted a public event at Gulshan Ladies Community School Auditorium, addressing the intersection of climate change, gender-based violence and harmful practices like early marriage.

The event featured The Wind of Change, a compelling skit performed by HASHIMUKH School’s children, showcased the impact of climate crises on women and girls, attended by over 50 students and 35 Zonta members. District Governor 25 and community leaders emphasized the need for collective action to combat these interconnected issues, reinforcing Zonta’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

Zonta Club of Aparri says NO to violence against women with inspiring seminars

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The Zonta Club of Aparri, Philippines, held a lecture-seminar at Lyceum of Aparri, focusing on the pressing issue of violence against women and children (VAWC). Prosecutor and Zontian Benifroi P. Pascual served as the resource speaker, addressing nearly 100 College of Nursing and Senior High School attendees.

The seminar aimed to raise awareness about the causes, consequences and prevention of VAWC. Participants gained valuable knowledge on recognizing signs of abuse and understanding the gravity of the issue. By dispelling myths, promoting empathy, and fostering collective action, the event encouraged a supportive approach to combating gender-based violence.

In another initiative, the club, led by President Liciel Antiporda-Ontiveros, conducted a livelihood seminar on fish processing at Sitio Zimay, Paddaya. Zontian Norma L. Arellano served as the resource speaker, guiding over 100 women attendees on starting low-capital businesses.

The seminar aimed to equip participants with practical skills to support their families and foster economic independence. By encouraging women to pursue their own ventures, the club seeks to empower communities and reduce reliance on partners, promoting socio-economic growth as a vital component of empowerment.

Zonta Clubs of Düsseldorf collaborate for awareness events

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The Zonta Clubs of Düsseldorf I and II, Germany, joined forces with Soroptimist clubs and Grupo de Mulheres do Brasil to host impactful events as part of their advocacy efforts.

The centerpiece of their collaboration took place at the central library, featuring the sponsorship of an orange bench as a symbol of the fight against gender-based violence. The event included speeches by local politicians to raise awareness and a reading by a local author, fostering dialogue and community engagement.

Zonta Club of Townsville Metro hosts high tea fundraiser for Zephyr Education

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On 23 November, the Zonta Club of Townsville Metro, Australia, launched its 16 Days of Activism campaign with a sold-out high tea fundraiser, attended by 80 guests. The event raised an impressive AU$3,800 to support Zephyr Education, an organization dedicated to helping children affected by domestic violence return to school.

Zephyr Education provides school uniforms and essential supplies to ensure a seamless transition for children starting at new schools. The event highlighted the community’s commitment to empowering young lives through education and advocacy.

Zonta Club of Dhaka III highlights youth leadership and innovation

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Zonta Club of Dhaka III, Bangladesh, organized a vibrant daylong program at Insignia Resort, engaging SBK school children, Z club members and youth from various clubs in Dhaka as part of the Zonta Says NO campaign during the 16 Days of Activism.

The event featured dance, debates and skits, emphasizing youth-driven advocacy against violence. Conceptualized by Z and youth members under the guidance of District 25 Chair Ztn. Nasreen Khan, the program was supported by Service Committee Chair Ztn. Seleena Mustafa, Club Creator Chair Ztn. Najma Altaf, PG Ztn. Fahmida Karim and the club’s members.

District 25 Governor Dr. Zareen Delawar delivered a keynote speech, emphasizing that while youth are tomorrow’s leaders, they are the changemakers of today. She inaugurated a free AI learning module, accessible to all, to promote intellectual equality. Prior to the event, Dr. Zareen conducted a Zoom meeting with District 25 club presidents, challenging them to develop unique and innovative themes for the 16 Days of Activism.

📚 Access the free AI learning module here: AI Learning Module