Turning advocacy into action, Zonta District 17 is strengthening its commitment to women’s rights, girls’ education, and community empowerment through leadership development and collaborative service initiatives.
During a press conference moderated by Ann Matibag, District 17 Chair for Public Relations and Communications, Zonta leaders highlighted the importance of compassionate, accountable, and action-driven leadership as they prepare for the upcoming International Day of the Girl Child.
The event featured Past International President Olivia Ferry, District Governor Runcha Boribalburibhand, Area Directors Azucena Yao, Angelita Ang, Marie Cecilia Pua Phee, and Eleanor Soriano, along with District 17 committee chairs Sonia Tiong-Aquino and Lourdes Almeda Sese.
Leadership That Goes Beyond Titles
For Zonta, leadership is more than holding a position—it is about inspiring people, strengthening organizations, and creating lasting change for women and girls.
Ferry emphasized that the success of leadership training should not be measured by attendance or knowledge gained alone, but by how effectively officers apply what they learn when they return to their respective clubs.
The training focuses on good governance, strategic planning, membership engagement, and sustainable programs that translate Zonta’s mission into measurable community impact.
“We want leaders who can turn commitment into action, action into measurable impact, and today’s achievements into a lasting legacy,” Ferry said.
District Governor Boribalburibhand likewise underscored Zonta’s vision of a world where women’s rights are recognized as human rights, women have equal access to opportunities and decision-making, and every woman can reach her full potential without fear of violence.
She also encouraged young professionals to join the organization and contribute their skills, fresh perspectives, and passion to volunteerism and advocacy.
Every Girl Deserves a Chance to Succeed
As the International Day of the Girl Child approaches, Zonta District 17 leaders renewed their call to protect every girl’s right to quality education and equal opportunities.
Lourdes Almeda Sese highlighted the need to address barriers to schooling, promote safe learning environments, and expand access to technology and digital learning resources.
For Azucena Yao, building a better world for women and girls means ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to remain in school, develop her talents, receive support, and pursue her dreams with confidence.
Angelita Ang echoed the call, emphasizing that girls should never be limited by gender or circumstances and deserve the encouragement and practical support needed to achieve their aspirations.
From Advocacy to Community Action
Beyond education and leadership, Zonta District 17 is advancing initiatives that respond to the needs of vulnerable communities.
Marie Cecilia Pua Phee connected these efforts to the organization’s 2026–2028 biennium direction, S.H.A.R.E.—Sustainability and Human Rights through Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment.
Proposed initiatives include education assistance, livelihood programs, environmental projects, and partnerships with schools, local government units, and civil society organizations.
The district also highlighted the importance of supporting women and girls in calamity-affected communities, including those in the Cordillera. Potential projects, such as community seed banks and the distribution of suitable vegetable seeds in partnership with local agriculture offices, could help strengthen food security and support livelihood recovery.
Meanwhile, Eleanor Soriano emphasized that effective volunteer leadership requires responsibility, consistent participation, and direct engagement with the communities being served.
Building a Better World, One Action at a Time
Through its priorities of Advocate. Prevent. Restore., Zonta District 17 continues to champion women’s rights and gender equality, prevent violence and discrimination through education and awareness, and restore dignity and opportunities for women and girls who need support.
For Ann Matibag, the press conference brought together a shared message: advocacy must be communicated clearly and translated into services that communities can see and feel.
As the district moves forward with its leadership and service initiatives, its impact will ultimately be reflected in a girl who can continue her education, a woman who gains access to livelihood opportunities, and a community that can rebuild with dignity.
Because empowering women and girls begins with leadership—and becomes meaningful when commitment turns into action.
