Young Women in Leadership Award

---

Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award (formerly the Young Women in Public Affairs Award) recognizes young women, ages 16-19, for demonstrating leadership skills and commitment to public service and civic causes, and encourages them to continue their participation in public and political life.

Since 1990, Zonta has given 1,128 awards, totaling US$1,673,750 to 956 young women from 61 countries.

The program operates at the Zonta club, district and international levels. 

Zonta Club of Defiance awards $1000.00, the award winner advances to the District 5 level with a $1500.00 award.  The District winner then advances to the international level where Zonta International offers 37 international awards of $5,000. 

The application process must start with a Zonta club. All application materials must be received at a Zonta club by the deadline printed on the application.  The deadline for Zonta Club of Defiance is March 1, 2025.  Applications must be postmarked no later than March 1, 2025.

Women, aged 16-19 on 1st April each year, living in a Zonta district or who are citizens of a Zonta country, who demonstrate evidence of the following, are eligible to apply.

• Active commitment to volunteerism.
• Experience in local government, student government, or workplace leadership (paid or unpaid).
• Volunteer leadership achievements.
• Knowledge of Zonta International and its programs.
• Support in Zonta International's mission of building a better world for women and girls.

Applicants from geographic areas within a Zonta district where no clubs are located may apply via a Zonta e-club or directly to the district to be eligible for the international awards. Previous district and international Young Women in Public Affairs Award recipients are not eligible to apply for the Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award.