Zonta Club of Dhaka III supports survivor of violence

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As part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, the Zonta Club of Dhaka III, Bangladesh, shared the compelling story of Tamanna, a young girl who endured the hardships of early child marriage and domestic abuse. Married at a young age, Tamanna faced torment from her husband and in-laws before being divorced, as her father—a struggling rickshaw puller—could not provide a dowry.

Her struggles continued in her second marriage, where her husband abandoned her while she was two months pregnant.

The club has stepped in to support Tamanna, offering financial assistance, healthcare and emotional guidance. Her story underscores the urgent need to address the challenges faced by women and girls, reinforcing the importance of the 16 Days of Activism and the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign.

Zonta Clubs of Ibadan launch Zonta Says NO with advocacy event

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The Zonta Clubs of Ibadan I and II, Nigeria, joined forces to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women with a flag-off ceremony at the Zonta clubhouse and Alesheloye Market.

The event signified the start of the 16 Days of Activism. During the ceremony, club members emphasized the importance of the Zonta Says NO campaign, held one-on-one discussions with market traders and buyers and held an open-air broadcast.

The club called for collective action to SPEAK UP and say NO to violence. The club firmly believes violence is not confined to a small portion of a distant community; it surrounds us.

Zonta Club of Lahti highlights women’s rights with creative advocacy

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A gathering at a pop-up space in Lahti’s main library focused on defending women’s human rights, bodily integrity and the right to live free of violence.

Organized by women’s organizations in Lahti, the event provided a platform for advocacy, creativity and community engagement. Participants voiced their opinions through conversation and music and interactive activities, including embroidering T-shirts to share ideas and raise awareness.

The initiative highlighted the ongoing efforts in Lahti to promote gender equality and create spaces where women’s voices are amplified.

Zonta Club of Hiidenvesi brings attention to dating abuse and workplace harassment

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The Zonta Club of Hiidenvesi, Finland, launched its Zonta Says NO campaign with a compelling message in a local newspaper, shedding light on the seriousness of dating abuse in young relationships. The club emphasized that these experiences are not “teenage drama” but constitute violence, urging friends, parents and other adults to recognize the signs, take action and support young people who disclose such experiences.

The club also organized impactful displays in local libraries addressing sexual harassment in the workplace. Featuring striking orange female figures and real-life stories of women who have experienced harassment, the exhibits aim to raise awareness, foster understanding and spark meaningful dialogue about this critical issue.

Zonta Club of Laguna presents BeCause: Be the Cause

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On the first day of the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Laguna, Philippines, launched its campaign with a virtual presentation led by immediate past president Ancy Palma at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines—San Pedro Campus. Titled “BeCause: Be The Cause — VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon Na Ang Oras” (Be The Cause – Let’s End VAW, Now Is The Time), the event educated and inspired over 200 students to take a stand against gender-based violence.

The 45-minute talk highlighted the realities of Violence Against Women (VAW), exploring its various forms, debunking myths and revealing lesser-known types of abuse, all contextualized within the Philippine setting. Participants reflected on the far-reaching impact of VAW on families, communities and the economy, with one student noting, “This talk was an eye-opener. I never realized how many forms violence can take and how it affects not just the victim, but the entire community.”

Students were encouraged to take action, emphasizing that ending VAW is a collective responsibility. “As a young man, I think it’s so important that we’re part of this conversation. Ending VAW is not just a women’s issue; it’s a human rights issue,” shared John, a male attendee.

By partnering with the Golden Z Club, the club engaged the next generation of advocates, expanding their reach among youth and fostering future leaders committed to ending VAW. The event at PUP-San Pedro was a pivotal moment in the campaign. By educating and empowering university students, the club is nurturing a generation of advocates who will carry the torch of change, spreading awareness and taking action in their communities.

Zonta Club of Cebu I launches campaign with Heart to H.E.A.R.T. Talk

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The Zonta Club of Cebu I, Philippines, officially launched its Campaign of Activism with a dynamic Heart to H.E.A.R.T. Talk conference at the University of the Visayas. Co-organized with the UV Golden Z Club, the event brought together approximately 200 students to discuss gender-based violence and women’s rights.

Dressed in vibrant orange—a symbol of solidarity and hope—participants engaged in meaningful conversations aimed at raising awareness and inspiring action. The symposium emphasized education and dialogue as key tools for fostering a future free from violence and fear.

Zonta Club of Isabela advances health and empowerment

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The Zonta Club of Isabela, Philippines, in partnership with the local government, implemented the Kutis Kilatis Campaign as part of the Leprosy Control Program, emphasizing the club’s commitment to community health and empowerment.

Led by Zontian doctors, the campaign provided professional consultations for 123 patients, focusing on the early detection and management of leprosy while promoting skin health. The initiative not only addressed medical needs but also reduced stigma surrounding the disease, fostering trust and awareness within the community.

The campaign also aligned with the club’s mission to support survivors of domestic violence. During consultations, Zontian doctors engaged women about their overall well-being and referred those in need to shelters and support groups. Hygiene kits and essentials were distributed to local shelters, integrating health and safety efforts to empower affected women and families.

The Kutis Kilatis Campaign exemplifies the club’s dedication to holistic community care, highlighting the interconnectedness of health, safety and empowerment.

Zonta Clubs of Asti and Alba unite for “Caffè Sospeso” initiative

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The Zonta Clubs of Alba, Langhe, Roero and Asti, Italy, have partnered with local Social Services to launch the “Caffè Sospeso” initiative, part of the 16 Days of Activism. Inspired by a Neapolitan tradition, the project offers already-paid coffee to individuals who cannot afford it, symbolically supporting women in difficult circumstances.

Participating bars in Asti and Alba invite patrons to leave a “suspended coffee” for someone in need, creating a powerful network of care and solidarity within the community.

“This is more than generosity; it’s a message that no one facing violence or marginalization is alone,” said the president of the Zonta Club of Asti. The Zonta Club of Alba echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in improving the lives of women and girls.

The initiative of the suspended coffee is just one of the many events planned during the 16 Days. Conferences, meetings and testimonies will be organized in Asti and Alba to promote a culture of respect, equality and solidarity. The initiative will be active for the entire month, with the hope that the warmth of a coffee can represent a small but significant relief for those in difficulty.

Zonta Club of Wellington launches social media campaign for 16 Days of Activism

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The Zonta Club of Wellington, New Zealand, kicked off its Zonta Says NO campaign with a social media initiative led by Advocacy Co-Convenors Laura and Annalise. The campaign features 16 daily messages and photos, including New Zealand statistics on intimate partner violence (IPV) and a call to donate funds for a ‘safe night’ for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

To amplify the campaign, club members dressed in orange for a group photo and shared personal messages on cards to highlight the importance of the initiative. Members are encouraged to share posts to spread awareness throughout the community.

Zonta Club of Davao City II partners with crisis intervention center to say NO to violence

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The Zonta Club of Davao City II, Philippines, collaborated with the Crisis Intervention Center (CIC), Balay Dangupan, to advocate against violence toward women and children. Balay Dangupan, a shelter providing temporary care for minor girls who are survivors of physical and sexual abuse, offers holistic interventions that foster resilience and empowerment.

Managed by the City Social Services and Development Office, the shelter operates within the Co Su Gian Home for the Aged Center compound in Lower Cabantian, Buhangin District.