The three-day 18th Biennial Conference of Zonta International District 25, a global voluntary organizationof professional women ends in Dhaka on Sunday, a press release said. The conference was inaugurated on October 31 at The Westin Dhaka hotel, with former Adviser to the Caretaker Government Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman present as the chief guest, a press release said.
More than 150 representatives from various Zonta Clubs across Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and India under District 25 are participating in the event. The conference is being recognized as a significant gathering of South Asian women leaders and professionals to discuss issues of women’s leadership, gender equality, and women’s advancement.
The ceremony began with the national anthems of Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand. Led by Conference Secretary Nasima Akhter, the flags of the participating countries were displayed. Later, renowned singer Meherin Mahmud performed a song titled “This Is Zonta,” highlighting women’s empowerment and the prevention of violence against women.
In his speech, chief guest Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman said, “We believe in the advancement of women not only in Bangladesh but across the world. Women’s empowerment is now a call to action. We need women who can awaken their inner strength and lead from within.”
Guest of honor LulzimPllana, Ambassador of Kosovo to Bangladesh, remarked, “Women in Kosovo are making remarkable achievements in politics, sports, music, cinema, and the arts. Many of them are now global examples of inspiration. Zonta International also believes in equality, leadership, and collective effort. I hope Zonta in Bangladesh will play a major role in building women leaders.”
At the event, internationally acclaimed Bangladeshi fashion designer Bibi Russell was honored with a special award. In her acceptance speech, she said, “I dedicate this honor to the weavers of Bangladesh. Our traditional handloom industry is going through a difficult time. Once, these artisans were the pride of our rural economy and culture, but now they are struggling to survive.”
One of the attractions of the ceremony was the fashion show directed by acclaimed fashion designer Tootli Rahman on the traditional and modern Bangladeshi women’s attire.
The extensive 3-day conference featured plenary sessions, leadership workshops, and thematic discussions on key issues such as women’s economic empowerment, climate action, and the prevention of gender-based violence. Delegates also participated in networking and cultural exchange sessions designed to strengthen inter-club partnerships and foster regional collaboration
The welcome address was delivered by Conference Chair Ztn Sonia Panni. Other speakers included Phillippa Jacobs-Lory, Director of the Zonta International Board;
Ztn Dilruba Ahmed, District 25’s Bylaws and Resolutions Chair and Parliamentarian; and Ztn Ratan Abul Hossain, Lieutenant Governor of District 25, among others.
