In 1995, when the Beijing Platform for Action was adopted, the global average proportion of women in parliament was just 11 percent. Today, women hold 23.5 percent of seats in the world’s national parliaments as of 1 July 2017.
Although this figure has doubled in the last 21 years, many barriers remain to women’s political participation and gender parity in political representation across the globe. Recognizing that to bring about sustainable changes that benefit all of humanity, women must have equal participation in the decision-making process, Zonta International established the Young Women in Public Affairs Award in 1990.
The Award recognizes young women, ages 16-19, who demonstrate superior leadership skills and a commitment to public service and civic causes, and encourages them to continue their participation in public and political life. Ten (10) international scholarships of US$4,000 each and up to 32 district/region scholarships of US$1,500 each are awarded each year.
$1,500 to $4,000 USD
Up to 42
Please refer to your local Zonta club for the specific deadline
Worldwide
High school; Undergraduate
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. Note that applicants from geographic areas within a Zonta district/region where no clubs are located will be eligible for the district/region and international awards. Z and Golden Z club members are also eligible to apply. Classified members and employees of Zonta International and Zonta International Foundation, and their family members, are not eligible to apply for the Awards. Previous International YWPA Award recipients are not 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.
Yes
Describe your experience in empowering women through service and advocacy. Are there any issues which hinder women’s empowerment in your country? Describe your ideas for resolving them (no more than 300 words). Please provide the word count at the end of your answer.