Zonta Club of Ballarat

ZONTA Young Women In LEADERSHIP AWARD

The Zonta Women in Leadership Award

The Goal

The goal of the Zonta Women in Leadership Award is to encourage more young women to participate in public affairs by recognizing a commitment to the volunteer sector, evidence of volunteer leadership achievements and a dedication to the advancement of the status of women.

In order for more women to be represented in key decision making positions worldwide, we must encourage young women to pursue careers, or seek leadership positions in public policy making, government and volunteer organizations and further their education with these aims in view.

Public Affairs refer to all aspects of community life where decisions have to be made about issues which relate to and affect communities in which they work and live.

The program operates at the Zonta Club, District/Region and International levels.

Who is Eligible?

Women of age 16-19 on 1st April each year, studying and living, or working in a Zonta district/region and demonstrating evidence of the following, are eligible to apply.

• Active commitment to volunteerism.
• Experience in local or student government.
• Volunteer leadership achievements.
• Knowledge of Zonta International and its programs.
• Advocating in Zonta International’s mission of advancing the status of women worldwide.

Applications

Students must complete an official application. Handwritten applications will not be accepted and should not be submitted. Students should adhere strictly to the number of words requested in brackets for each question and the word count should be provided at the end of each answer. Additional words will not be considered in the application evaluation.

Applications must be submitted by email and include the following:-

• Verification of current enrolment by school official
• Two confidential recommendations from adults, not related to the applicant, such as teachers, school officials or community leaders.

Any questions may be directed to the Award Coordinator at info@zontaballarat.com

2025 Winner

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 1,165 awards, totalling US $1,858,750 to 993 young women from 60 countries.

The program operates at the Zonta club, district and international levels. Zonta International offers 37 international awards of US$5,000. Each district may submit one applicant for consideration for an international scholarship.

This year, our Club received seven applicants from various colleges throughout Ballarat. This year, our winner was Hayley Oldaker from Mount Rowan Secondary College. Congratulation, Hayley! 

Hayley will now go on to represent our Club at District 23 and if successful there, will go onto to represent District 23 at Zonta International.

Zonta Club of Ballarat Award Types