We are in a time of extraordinary change. Technological innovation, evolving social dynamics, heightened awareness of climate change and economic challenges are bringing new opportunities for women and girls worldwide. Now is the time for Zonta to build a better world for women and girls.
While we have made progress toward gender equality, the 2026 Sustainable Development Goals Report just released in July 2026 shows only marginal progress of the targets under Sustainable Development Goal 5 – Gender Equality- and confirms that none have been achieved so far. According to the World Economic Forum, global gender parity is still far more than a century away. We should not see this as a discouragement, but rather a call to action. We must be resourceful and determined. Our organization needs to remain strong and relevant for future generations. Marian de Forest once said, “If we want to uplift women, we must be brave enough to lead.”
We are all leaders of Zonta through our mission, values and spirit. This biennium, I encourage you all to live by the motto:
S.H.A.R.E.– Sustainability and Human Rights through
Accountability, Respect and Empowerment
This motto reflects the simple idea that lasting change starts with how we act within our own community. When we lead with accountability, respect one another and empower others, we strengthen Zonta and increase our collective impact. S.H.A.R.E. is also about transparency, collaboration and community. By embracing S.H.A.R.E., we will take action through our advocacy, projects, programs and initiatives to continue strengthening our organization and give a bolder voice to the women and girls we serve.Ferbnab
Our global advocacy will continue to focus on women in decision-making, climate justice, education equality and ending violence against women and girls. I encourage you to focus on where you can have the strongest local impact, especially during the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign. Look to those around you and to the future. Strengthen your engagement with youth in your community either through partnerships or through Z and Golden Z clubs.
Our educational programs remain among our most visible and impactful works. In 2028, we will celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Amelia Earhart Fellowship with a special anniversary edition and increased support for fellows. We will also continue our Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award, Zonta Women in STEM and Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award programs – giving opportunities and resources to help women expand their presence in male-dominated fields.
I am also looking forward to the new Zonta Community Give Back Grant Program. This is set to connect Zonta International with clubs by supporting local projects and giving back to the communities in which our members live and work. We will also continue to map out our Blueprint for the Future for improved governance to create a stronger, sustainable Zonta. While our goals are ambitious, they are attainable. Together, we can accelerate progress toward gender equality by embracing accountability, respect and empowerment.
I thank you for your continued support throughout the 2026-2028 Biennium as we S.H.A.R.E. our vision and build a better world for all Zontians and the women and girls we serve, which is a better world for all.
Best regards,
Fernanda Gallo Freschi
2026-2028 President
Zonta International and Zonta Foundation for Women
