Learn more about our work

Building a better world for women and girls

For nearly 100 years, our members have advocated for gender equality, funded education, and worked to end violence against women — here in the National Capital Region and around the world.

Who We Are

Service and advocacy, side by side

The Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada is part of Zonta International, a global organization of individuals working to build a better world for women and girls. Since 1929, our members have combined hands-on service with advocacy — funding scholarships, supporting local women's organizations, and speaking up on issues from gender-based violence to equal representation.

We're a club of doers: individuals from across the National Capital Region who believe that lasting change happens through direct support and through changing the systems around us.

Learn more about our club →

What We Do

Our advocacy in action

Every project we take on serves one goal: expanding rights, safety, and opportunities for women and girls — locally and worldwide.

Ending Violence Against Women

Through the global Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign, we raise awareness and support local organizations working with survivors during the 16 Days of Activism and year-round.

Education Awards

Our education awards open doors for young women — including the Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award and Zonta Women in STEM Award — investing directly in the next generation of leaders.
See our education awards →

Local Service Projects

Our members give their time and skills to hands-on projects that support women and families in the National Capital Region — from donation drives to partnerships with local shelters and community organizations.

Climate Justice

The Zonta Says NOW to Gender-Equal Climate Action campaign focuses on how climate change is increasing gender inequality. This campaign advocates to end the gender-related consequences of climate change.

97

years serving Ottawa, Canada

Our Impact

Nine decades of showing up for women and girls

Since 1929, the Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada has been part of this city's story. Our causes have varied over the years. Our commitment to the education and empowerment of women and girls hasn't.

awards given out since 1984

dollars in education award funds given to women and girls since 1984

active members and growing

Be part of our next century!

Whether you're interested in membership, partnership, or learning more about our work empowering women and girls in the National Capital Region, reach out — there's a place for you here and we will get back to you soon!

Get Together

Upcoming events

From fundraisers to advocacy campaigns, our events are open to members and friends alike. Join us.

Scholarship Spotlight

Investing in the next generation

Sifa Gulin Tarakci  Jean M. Coon 2026 Humanitarian Award · 2026

Sifa is a Grade 12 student at Merivale High School whose community service is driven by a deep commitment to inclusion. As a Muslim immigrant woman, she is dedicated to inclusivity and creating spaces where everyone belongs. Some of her notable initiatives include founding the Panorama Multicultural Festival, which drew over 650 attendees and raised more than $1,000 for a non-profit supporting newcomers and launching a women's swim initiative so Muslim women in her community could stay active without compromising their religious values.

Learn about our scholarships →

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Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada
May 15,1929-2026 Celebrating 97 years of Service and Advocacy to Women and Girls in Canada’s NCR

In observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage, Zonta International invites you to a virtual event bringing together government, civil society and international advocates to discuss the global state of child marriage and the actions needed to end it.📅 27 November 2026🔗 Register here: us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/jynDGaN0Ssi5nRm92yX7Yg#EndChildMarriage #ZontaSaysNO ...
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Meet the recipients of the 2026 Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case (left to right in the image); • Penney Kome • Dr. Amanda McCormick • Sunny Marriner • Melanie Omeniho • Yanique Brandford (Youth recipient) • Amanda Kilabuk The Awards recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing equality for women and girls in Canada. This year’s recipients are being recognized for their leadership and the lasting impact of their work. Visit www.canada.ca/en/women-gender-equality/news/2026/10/minister-valdez-announces-recipients-of-the-2... to learn more about their remarkable contributions to making Canada a more inclusive place for all. ...
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Learn more to #GetCyberSafe:Week 3 of #CyberMonth2026 is also Small Business Week.Specifically, how to protect your organization from common cyber threats like ransomware, which is a form of malware that can lock you out of your own business' data. Learn more to #GetCyberSafe: www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/protect-your-business-against-ransomware ...
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LAST CALL!There are fewer than two weeks left to see a powerful exhibition featuring more than five decades of Sylvia Safdie’s work. In Feet (1992–2021), Safdie arranges stones in pairs so they echo the contours of the human body. Bound with metal and marked by time, these natural materials become stand-ins for absent figures, reflecting our instinct to recognize ourselves in the world around us. Through minimal intervention, Safdie transforms natural objects into a reflection on presence, vulnerability, and connection. Sylvia Safdie: TERRA closes on October 25, 2026. Plan your visit ➡ bit.ly/4uMbB7k #SylviaSafdieTERRA 🖼️ Sylvia Safdie, Feet (detail), 1992–2021, stone, steel, glass, bronze, 16 × 360 × 200 cm. Courtesy of the artist © Sylvia Safdie Photo: Richard-Max Tremblay ...
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