Are you a young woman who has experience in volunteering and/or studying at school or university and is willing to promote your leadership experience and get a scholarship to pay your tuition fee or living expenses? Here is a great opportunity offered by the Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award.

The Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award is a prestigious global recognition designed to honor young women who demonstrate outstanding leadership skills, a commitment to public service, and active participation in civic and political life. This award encourages young women to continue their leadership journey and contribute to a more equitable world. Since 1990, Zonta International has awarded over 1,128 scholarships, totaling US$1.67 million, to deserving young leaders across 61 countries.

Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award – Key Details

• Organization: Zonta International
• Targets: Young Women with leadership and public service experience
• Award Levels: Club, District, and International
• International Awards: 37 winners receive US$5,000 each
• Application: Apply through a local Zonta club (check deadlines)
• Location: Open to applicants in Zonta districts and countries worldwide
• Funding: Supported by the Zonta Foundation for Women

Opportunities you may like: 

• International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship 2025 at ECNU, China, for MTCSOL
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Benefits of the Award

• International Recognition: Be acknowledged for your leadership and dedication to public service.
• Financial Support: 37 international awardees receive US$5,000 each to further their education or leadership endeavors.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded young women and professionals dedicated to empowering women worldwide.
• Pathway to Leadership: Enhance your resume and gain credibility as a young leader in civic and political life.

How to use the fund?

• There are no restrictions on the use of funds.
• Please note: If the applicant is studying at a secondary school, university, or college, Zonta International is offering a “scholarship” to pay for tuition and/or living expenses.
•  Recipients are not permitted to defer the Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award.
• Recipients may accept additional grants and awards from other sources.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Women aged 16-19 as of April 1 each year.
• Leadership Experience: Active involvement in volunteerism, student or local government, or workplace leadership (paid or unpaid).
• Commitment to Service: Proven track record in volunteer leadership roles.
• Knowledge of Zonta International: Understanding of Zonta’s mission to empower women and girls.
• Support for Gender Equality: Passion for advancing women’s rights and leadership in public life.

Note: Applicants from regions with no local Zonta club may apply through a Zonta e-club or district to be eligible for the international awards. Previous district and international awardees, Zonta members, direct members, employees of Zonta International, and individuals involved in the selection process are not eligible

How to Apply

1. Find a Zonta Club: Your application must begin at the Zonta club level. Use the Club Locator to locate your nearest Zonta club.
2. Submit Your Application: Download the application from the Zonta International website and submit all required materials to a local Zonta club by the deadline stated on the application.
3.  Each district selects one (or two in larger districts) applicants to compete for the international awards.
4. Final Selection: Zonta International awards 37 scholarships of US$5,000 each to top candidates globally.

Application Requirements: 

• Complete the official application form
• Verification of current enrollment from a school official (if applicable) or a letter from your employer (if applicable).
• Two recommendations from unrelated adults (e.g., teachers, school officials, employers, community leaders) directly to the Zonta club or district. Do not send these recommendations through the applicant.

For more details or assistance, contact Zonta International at programs@zonta.org. or visit the Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award website