Scholarships and Awards
Young Women in Leadership Award
Recognising young women who show leadership and a commitment to public service and civic causes.
16–19
Ages
2026 round closed
Status
Monday 16 March 2026
2026 applications closed
16–19
Age range
16 Mar 2026
2026 applications closed
1
International winner in 2025
About the award
What it recognises
The Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award, formerly the Young Women in Public Affairs Award, recognises young women aged 16–19 for demonstrating leadership skills and commitment to public service and civic causes, and encourages them to continue their participation in public and political life.
Eligibility
Who can apply
Club members, individuals with direct membership of Zonta International, and employees of Zonta International or the Zonta Foundation for Women are not eligible to apply.
How to apply
Applying for this award
Applications for the 2026 award closed on Monday 16 March 2026. Contact the club to be told when the next round opens. Email submission is preferred — electronic signatures may be used if available, otherwise the form will need to be printed, signed and scanned.
On the first section of the form, enter: Zonta Club of Melbourne on Yarra, District 23, Area 1, Victoria, Australia. Please ensure all required personal information is completed.
2025
Recent recipients
Our 2025 recipients
Winner
Maya Farmer
Maya was the club’s 2025 Young Women in Leadership Award winner and went on to become an international winner.
Runner-up
Sophie Amin
A Year 12 student from Albert Park College, recognised for her contributions to youth citizenship and advocacy.
More awards
See all our scholarships and awards
The club offers a range of awards recognising women and girls in leadership, business, STEM, the arts and climate action.