Zonta District 17 strengthens drive for women’s rights, girls’ education

Zonta District 17 is stepping up efforts to advance women’s rights, expand educational opportunities for girls, and empower vulnerable communities through stronger leadership and sustainable service programs.

The commitment was highlighted during a press conference moderated by Ann Matibag, District 17 Chair for Public Relations and Communications, where Zonta leaders discussed the organization’s advocacy priorities and preparations for the upcoming International Day of the Girl Child.

Among those who attended were Past International President Olivia Ferry, District Governor Runcha Boribalburibhand, Area Directors Azucena Yao, Angelita Ang, Marie Cecilia Pua Phee, and Eleanor Soriano, as well as committee chairs Sonia Tiong-Aquino and Lourdes Almeda Sese.

Leadership anchored on accountability and impact

Zonta leaders stressed that effective leadership goes beyond holding positions, emphasizing the need to translate training, organizational commitments, and advocacy into concrete results for the communities they serve.

Ferry said leadership development should be measured not only by participation or knowledge gained but also by how officers apply their learning within their respective clubs. The training covers good governance, strategic planning, membership engagement, and the development of sustainable programs.

“We want leaders who can turn commitment into action, action into measurable impact, and today’s achievements into a lasting legacy,” Ferry said.

Boribalburibhand reaffirmed Zonta’s commitment to a world where women’s rights are recognized as human rights and women can access equal opportunities, participate in decision-making, and pursue their full potential free from violence.

She also encouraged young professionals to join the organization, bringing their expertise, ideas, and enthusiasm to volunteer work and advocacy initiatives.

Expanding opportunities for girls

With the International Day of the Girl Child approaching, Zonta District 17 renewed its call for stronger efforts to protect girls’ rights and ensure that they have access to quality education and equal opportunities.

Sese emphasized the importance of removing barriers that prevent girls from attending school, creating safe learning environments, and improving access to technology and digital education.

Yao likewise underscored the need to help girls stay in school, discover their abilities, and receive the support necessary to pursue their ambitions.

Ang echoed these calls, stressing that gender and personal circumstances should never prevent girls from reaching their full potential. She emphasized the importance of providing young girls with encouragement and practical assistance to help them achieve their goals.

Community programs to address pressing needs

Beyond education and leadership development, Zonta District 17 is exploring initiatives designed to respond to the economic, social, and environmental needs of underserved communities.

Pua Phee discussed the district’s direction for the 2026–2028 biennium under S.H.A.R.E.—Sustainability and Human Rights through Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment.

Proposed programs include educational assistance, livelihood support, environmental initiatives, and collaborative projects with schools, local government units, and civil society organizations.

The district also identified opportunities to assist women and girls in calamity-affected areas, particularly in the Cordillera region. Among the proposed initiatives are community seed banks and the provision of appropriate vegetable seeds in coordination with local agriculture offices to help improve food security and restore livelihoods.

Soriano, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of responsible volunteerism, noting that meaningful service requires active participation, accountability, and a genuine understanding of the needs of the communities being served.

Turning advocacy into lasting change

Through its priorities of Advocate. Prevent. Restore., Zonta District 17 continues to promote gender equality and women’s rights, prevent violence and discrimination through education and awareness, and help restore dignity and opportunities for women and girls in need.

Matibag emphasized the importance of communicating these advocacies effectively and ensuring that they lead to tangible programs and services that communities can directly experience.

As the district advances its leadership and community initiatives, its success will be reflected in expanded access to education, improved livelihood opportunities for women, and stronger support systems for vulnerable communities.

Zonta District 17’s message remains clear: lasting progress begins with committed leadership, but its true value is measured by the opportunities created and the lives transformed through meaningful action.