DHAKA : Under the inspiring motto “Empowering Women through Service and Advocacy across the globe,” a three-day 18th Biennial Conference of District 25 of Zonta International, a leading global organization of women professionals dedicated to service and advocacy, commences in Dhaka.
The conference has brought together over 150 delegates from Zonta Clubs across Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and India, marking a significant regional gathering of women leaders and professionals united in their commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
A press meet was held at a city hotel earlier Saturday to brief the media on various aspects of the conference and Zonta’s ongoing initiatives in the region. ZI & ZIF Board Director and District 25 Liaison Ztn. Phillipa Jacoobs Lory, and Governor Dr. Zareen Delawar, District 25, Zonta International, spoke on the occasion, among others.
Dr. Zareen Delawar, Governor of Zonta International District 25, emphasized the relevance of Zonta’s mission in today’s global context, saying: “The 18th Biennial Conference in Dhaka reflects our collective commitment to empowering women through service, advocacy, and leadership. At a time when women’s voices are more vital than ever, this platform will inspire collaboration, innovation, and action across borders.”
Highlighting the importance of regional cooperation, Dr. Zareen Delawar added: “This gathering is not only a celebration of Zonta’s achievements but also a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to create a world where every woman has equal access to education, opportunity, and respect.”
The conference will feature 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 will also participate in networking and cultural exchange sessions designed to strengthen inter-club partnerships and foster regional collaboration.
Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, a distinguished economist and former Adviser to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh, will grace the inaugural ceremony as the Chief Guest at the Westin Dhaka tonight. The event will also be attended by Lulzim Pllana, Ambassador of Kosovo to Bangladesh, and internationally acclaimed Bangladeshi fashion designer Bibi Russell. The inaugural program will feature captivating performances by Bangladeshi artistes and a fashion show directed by Tootli Rahman, celebrating the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
Zonta International District 25, comprising Area 1 (India & Sri Lanka) and Area 2 (Bangladesh & Nepal) clubs from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, plays a pivotal role in advancing Zonta’s mission in South Asia through community service projects, scholarships, and advocacy campaigns. There are currently 7 Zonta Clubs in Bangladesh actively engaged in initiatives promoting education, health, stop child marriage, stop violence against women, climate justice and women in decision making position.
