What is Zonta?

Zonta International is a worldwide service organisation of executives in business and the professions working to advance the status of women. There are over 33,000 members in more than 1,250 clubs in 67 countries.

Membership is by invitation, and all clubs are required to achieve occupational diversity in membership to ensure there are a wide variety of skills, expertise and interests among members. Until the late 1980's membership was open to women only. Membership is now open to men too, at Club option.

To qualify for membership candidates must be "actively engaged (at least 50% of the time) in a recognised business or profession in a decision-making capacity".

What are the origins of Zonta?

The first Zonta club was formed in Buffalo, New York in 1919, by journalist and playwright Marian de Forest (pictured left).

Five women conceived of the formation of a new service club, made up of business and professional women, where they decided to "take for their specific aim educational and constructive work for girls and young women". Ever since then Zonta clubs have been chartered all over the world.

'Zonta' is a derivative of the North American Sioux Indian word meaning 'honest and trustworthy' and the Zonta emblem is a composite of a number of symbols.

Visit the Zonta International website for a detailed History of Zonta International

What do Zontians actually do?

Zontians volunteer their time, talents and energy to local and international service projects that advance the status of women and meet Zonta's Objects. Zontians attend monthly Club, Board and Committee meetings, depending on their degree of involvement. See About Our Club for details. The time commitment to Zonta will vary from member to member, depending on whether they hold leadership positions and/or become involved in the activities outside of their club, at Area, District and International levels.

Clubs decide on their own service projects at a local level. At an international level, the programs are developed and overseen by subcommittees of the Status of Women Service Committee, which reports to the Zonta International Board. International service projects are voted upon and approved by clubs at the biennial Zonta International Convention.

Visit the Zonta International website for more information on Zonta.

How is Zonta structured?

Individuals, called Zontians, are members of Zonta clubs. Zonta clubs are members of Zonta International, which is divided into 30 geographical districts around the world for ease of administration. Clubs in specific areas belong to a district. At club, district and international level, democratically elected boards lead the organisation and provide direction for the future. Decisions are made at monthly club meetings, district conferences are held in the odd years and international conventions are held in the even years.

Zonta International seeks to:

• provide service at the global and local level

• improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women

• work for the advancement of understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of executives in business and the professions

• promote justice and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms

• be united internationally to foster high ethical standards, implement service programs, and provide mutual support and fellowship for members who serve their communities, their nations, and the universe.