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Empowering Women and Girls: Zonta International's New Education Awards

On March 4, 2025, Zonta International, a prominent global organization dedicated to fostering better opportunities for women and girls, unveiled two noteworthy education awards: the Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award and the Zonta Women in STEM Award. These initiatives underscore Zonta's commitment to increasing female representation in crucial sectors and ensuring equitable access to educational and professional opportunities.

The Significance of Representation

Representation is vital when it comes to encouraging women and girls to pursue higher learning and seek out leadership roles in fields like business, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). By addressing disparities in these areas, Zonta International aims to dismantle ingrained barriers and promote an environment where all women can aspire to their greatest potential, free from societal constraints. Salla Tuominen, the President of Zonta International, emphasized this mission, stating, "Every woman and girl has the right to learn, dream, and achieve. Our programs will pave a path towards a future defined solely by individual imagination, not historical limitations."

Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award

Recognizing the pressing need for more female leaders in business, Zonta International introduced the Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award. This award acknowledges women aged 18 to 35 who exemplify exceptional leadership skills, entrepreneurial talents, and ethical practices in their respective industries. Moreover, this initiative focuses on addressing challenges faced by women and girls while also considering the implications of climate justice.

Beginning in 2025, Zonta will grant ten international awards of $10,000 each, along with complimentary one-year memberships in Zonta International to the recipients. This recognition not only celebrates women's achievements but also encourages them to strive for more, thus contributing to a more diverse and equitable landscape in business.

Zonta Women in STEM Award

To highlight the indispensable role women play in advancing knowledge and innovation within STEM fields, Zonta has also established the Zonta Women in STEM Award. This award seeks to shine a light on groundbreaking research, innovative discoveries, and essential contributions made by women in these areas. By celebrating such accomplishments, Zonta aims to inspire future generations of female scientists and engineers, advocating for inclusivity and diversity within the STEM community.

Similar to the business award, starting in 2025, Zonta will also offer sixteen international awards of $10,000 each along with a supporting one-year membership in Zonta International. This initiative will further motivate women in STEM and break down existing barriers in these fields.

How to Get Involved

For those interested in learning more about the eligibility criteria and application procedures for these awards, Zonta encourages potential applicants to visit their official website at www.zonta.org/education. Additionally, contributions in support of these education awards can be made to the Zonta Foundation for Women via www.zonta.org/donate.

About Zonta International

Founded in 1919, Zonta International began with a group of visionaries in Buffalo, New York, determined to improve women's equality. Today, it boasts over 25,000 members across 64 countries, all collaborating toward global gender equality. The organization focuses on various pressing issues, including violence against women, climate justice, educational equality, and the representation of women in decision-making positions. Over its long history, Zonta International has successfully allocated more than $51 million to bolster women's and girls' empowerment, enhancing their access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and secure living conditions.

As Zonta launches these education awards, it is taking significant strides toward a future where women can achieve their dreams without limits—a commitment that will undoubtedly inspire countless individuals worldwide.