Zonta Club of Naples installs and educates new Z Clubs

The Zonta Club of Naples, USA, recently installed three Z Clubs to promote leadership, international fellowship and volunteerism. The student clubs chartered in December 2021 and January 2022 at the Pace Center for Girls, Golden Gate High School and Palmetto Ridge High School, with approximately 50 students joining. 

In alignment with the Zonta club, the student clubs undertake service projects benefiting their school, community and beyond. They promote leadership development, strive for academic achievement, and improve international understanding through service.

On 25 February, in support of their student clubs, the Zonta club held its first leadership development training program. The program featured Joanne Grady Huskey, an author, speaker and developer of an international young women's leadership program called I Live2Lead.

"What was incredibly amazing to me was seeing girls who don't engage with others do so," said Marianne Kearns, the Executive Director of the Pace Center for Girls, club member and Z Club adviser. "I am so thankful to the Zonta Club of Naples for organizing and introducing us to such a dynamic presenter like Mrs. Huskey."

On 5 March, the Zonta club also supported a Job Starter Career Fair for its Z Club members at the Golden Gate and Palmetto Ridge High Schools. The fair focused on skills training, college prep and financial aid guidance. 

"This was a great opportunity for our students to further build a solid foundation to prepare for college and secondary school," said Tanya Ferguson, a club member and adviser to both Z clubs.

"Developing strong leaders in the next generation supports our Zonta mission of empowering women and girls," said Club President Sharon Henry-Woodby, MD. "We believe leadership skills and education are key. This is also why we provide a variety of scholarships in Collier County, funded an endowment at Florida Gulf Coast University and recently established the Zonta Club of Naples scholarship open to Z Club students."