Zonta is dedicated to equal rights for women, global access to education for young girls, better health care for women, and economic improvements. By partnering with United Nations organizations and other recognized non-governmental organizations, every day we move one step closer to a better world.
International projects
Since our first service project, Zonta has contributed more than US$32.7 million to our international service projects. Zonta International is committed to defending the rights of vulnerable girls and women worldwide. We support projects fighting towards ending child marriage, creating learning opportunities for young girls, providing better health care for women, and projects that protect women’s safety.
Local projects
Our local clubs carefully select their charities that fit into Zonta’s vision and mission: refugees for women, breast cancer research, support of underprivileged girls, and so on. These are all local initiatives. A part of the proceeds from the local clubs is donated to Zonta International to support the joint projects.
Education
Zonta International seeks to provide opportunities and recognition for women through several educational programs and awards.
Amelia Earhart Fellowship
The Amelia Earhart Fellowship is awarded annually to women pursuing a Ph.D./doctoral degree in aviation science or aerospace engineering. The fellowship can be used at any university or college that offers accredited post-graduate courses and degrees in these fields.
Women in Business Scholarship
The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship program gives women the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business management and break down gender barriers.
Young Women in Leadership Award
Young women between the ages of 16 and 19 who demonstrate leadership in public policy, government, and voluntary organizations are awarded the Young Women in Leadership Award (formerly the Young Women in Public Affairs Award) . Zonta clubs present the awards, and the Zonta International Foundation funds the awards at district, regional and international levels.
Women in STEM Scholarship
In 2019 and 2021, Zonta International was pleased to support the Zonta International Women in Technology Scholarships to encourage women to pursue education, career opportunities and leadership roles in information technology. In June 2022, the Zonta International membership voted to continue the program with an expanded focus on all STEM fields, not only technology. With this change, the Zonta International Board approved a name change and will offer the Zonta International Women in STEM Scholarship for the third cycle of the scholarship program. Applications for the 2023 Women in STEM scholarships have closed.
Golden Z clubs
Our Golden Z clubs are student clubs designed to provide young women with opportunities to develop communication and leadership skills, explore career alternatives, and increase their international awareness and understanding through service. Students in the Golden Z clubs plan, organize, and participate in unique activities that give them hands-on experience in improving the lives of others both locally and internationally through the sponsorship of the various Zonta clubs.
