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STATUS

Open

APPLICATION OPEN

January 2024

APPLICATION CLOSES

March 2024

VALUE

up to $5000 USD

NUMBER OF AWARDS OFFERED

1  District Awardee
37 international awardees

Young Woman in Public Affairs 

The Young Women in Public Affairs Awards are awarded to young women who demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to public service and civic causes. Zonta International offers up to 37 international awards of US$5,000 each.

In a world where women constitute approximately 40% of the global workforce, the reality remains that only 25.7% of national parliamentarians are female, as revealed by data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (as of 1 September 2021). Recognizing young women's pivotal role in advancing women's empowerment within public service, Zonta International has introduced the Young Women in Public Affairs (YWPA) Award.

 

This prestigious accolade celebrates the remarkable achievements of young women aged 16-19 who exhibit exceptional leadership qualities, unwavering dedication to public service, and a deep commitment to civic causes. By honouring their contributions, the YWPA Award aims to inspire and empower these young women to continue engaging in public and political life.

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The YWPA Award operates at multiple levels, including Zonta clubs, districts/regions, and the international stage. In collaboration with its network of clubs, Zonta International presents 37 international awards, each amounting to US$5,000. At the district/region level, one outstanding applicant is selected and submitted for consideration for an international scholarship. Moreover, the five largest districts are granted the opportunity to nominate a second applicant, thereby expanding the chances for recognition and support. Through this robust framework, Zonta International strives to uplift and amplify the voices of exceptional young women in their pursuit of a more inclusive and impactful future.

Charity

Zonta has given 1,054 awards, US$1,303,750, to 882 young women from 60 countries.

Eligibility

  • Women, aged 16-19 on 1st April each year, living in a Zonta district/region, 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 for Zonta International’s mission of empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy.

Application Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

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  • Completion of the official application (see below or may be downloaded from the Zonta International website

  • Verification of current enrollment by school/institute official (if applicable), or

  • Letter from employer stating employment (if applicable).

  • Two recommendations from adults, not related to the applicant, such as teachers, school officials, employee supervisors or community leaders, must be sent directly to the Zonta club or district/region and not through the applicant.

NEED ASSISTANCE?

Note: The Young Woman in Public Affairs award is offered at a district and International level. To learn more

  Please visit: Young Women in Public Affairs Award (zonta.org)

In Person

St Catherine's College, 

2 Park Road, Crawley, 6009

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