Kathmandu: The Zonta Club Kathmandu marked a defining moment in its history by celebrating two landmark international achievements at the 67th Zonta International Convention, held in Vancouver, Canada, from July 11 to July 14, while also formally ushering in a new Executive Board during the 14th Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The convention brought unprecedented recognition to Nepal and reaffirmed Zonta Club Kathmandu’s growing leadership in advancing gender equality and building a better world for women and girls.
In a historic first for Nepal and the region, Zontian Shreejana Rana was elected to the Zonta International Board of Directors for the 2026–2028 biennium, becoming the first representative from Nepal and the region to serve on the governing board of Zonta International. Led by the International President, the Zonta International Board provides strategic leadership and governance to more than 1,100 Zonta clubs across 65 countries and territories, guiding the organization’s global mission to build a better world for women and girls.
Adding to this historic achievement, Zonta Club Kathmandu was honored with the prestigious Zonta Excellence in Service and Advocacy Award for the 2024–2026 biennium, recognizing the club’s outstanding work in strengthening collective action to prevent both offline and online violence against women and girls. This marks the second consecutive biennium that the club has received this distinguished international recognition.
Every biennium, only six clubs from more than 1,100 Zonta clubs worldwide are selected to receive the Excellence in Service and Advocacy Award during the Zonta International Convention in recognition of exceptional service and advocacy.
The award recognizes Zonta Club Kathmandu’s impactful advocacy initiatives implemented in collaboration with the District Police Office Lalitpur, District Police Range Kathmandu, Satdobato Police Circle, the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police, the Legal Professional Women’s Group, local governments, national and international non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and educational institutions. Through these strategic partnerships, the club has strengthened institutional capacity, enhanced survivor-centered services, increased public awareness, and promoted coordinated efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
On behalf of Zonta Club Kathmandu, outgoing President (2024–2026) Zontian Bina Rana proudly received the Excellence in Service and Advocacy Award during the convention.
A delegation of 10 members from Nepal attended this year’s Zonta International Convention, reflecting the country’s growing engagement within the global Zonta movement and its commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equality.
Following these historic international accomplishments, Zonta Club Kathmandu convened its 14th Annual General Meeting, bringing together members, partners, and distinguished women leaders to review the club’s achievements and formally transition leadership for the upcoming biennium.
During the AGM, Zontian Mridula Rajbhandari officially assumed office as President of Zonta Club Kathmandu, succeeding outgoing President Zontian Bina Rana. Joining her on the Executive Board is Zontian Neelima Shrestha as Vice President, alongside a newly elected team of board members and committee chairs who will guide the club’s advocacy, service, and leadership initiatives over the next two years.
Incoming President Mridula Rajbhandari reaffirmed the club’s commitment to expanding the club’s impact through stronger partnerships, innovative advocacy, and sustainable community initiatives that empower women and girls across Nepal.
