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.
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.
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.
Zonta Events
International Day of the Girl
Declared by the United Nations, the International Day of the Girl Child recognizes girls' rights and the unique challenges they face worldwide.…
Read more about International Day of the GirlZonta Club Meetings
ZCO CA Board Meeting – 14 October 2026
The Zonta Club of Ottawa Area Board meets to review club business, plan upcoming activities, and guide the work of our committees.…
Read more about ZCO CA Board Meeting – 14 October 2026Zonta Events
Persons Day
Persons Day marks the 1929 decision in the Persons Case, when the "Famous Five" — Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise…
Read more about Persons Day
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.
Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada
(opens in a new tab)Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada
1929-2026 Celebrating 97 years of Service and Advocacy to Women Girls in Canada’s NCR
