Purpose
The Young Women in Public Affairs Program (YWPA) program was established in 1990. The 
program goal is to encourage more young women to participate in public affairs by recognizing a 
commitment to the volunteer sector, evidence of volunteer leadership achievements and a 
dedication to the advancement of the status of women. Applicants must of be of age 16-19 and
living or studying in a Zonta district/region at the time of application.
This program operates at the Club, District and International levels of Zonta International.  
Program Statistics
Since the inception of the program in 1990, Zonta has awarded 601 awards (includes international 
awards) totaling US$430,750 to 534 young women representing 50 countries.
The Awards
2008: In February 2008, the ZIF Board and the ZI Board approved increasing the amount of 
funding for the YWPA Awards to provide US$1,000 to each District recipient and US$3,000 to five 
International recipients.
2001-2007: In February 2000, The ZIF Board approved the expansion of the award to include five 
international recipients.  Zonta provided US$500 to each District recipient and US$1,000 to five 
International recipients.  
1991-2000: Zonta International provided US$500 to each District recipient and US$1,000 to one 
International recipient.  
How are the Young Women in Public Affairs (YWPA) Recipients Chosen?  
Zonta Clubs publicize the program in their communities and distribute, receive and evaluate 
applications. Clubs are encouraged to sponsor awards and certificates. Zonta Clubs select one 
application to send to the Zonta District Governor. A District evaluation committee selects one 
applicant per District to submit to Zonta International Headquarters. The International YWPA 
Committee recommends five applicants for international YWPA awards to the Zonta International 
Board (or the Executive Committee acting on its behalf) for approval. 
Timetable
Application is posted on the Zonta International website (www.zonta.org).................................by 1 August
Applications received by Zonta Clubs …………………………………………….….............deadline given by each Club
Club recipient is selected and application is received by District Governor..…………….….......…..…. by 1 April
District recipient selected and application received by Zonta International Headquarters…..……….by 1 May
Announcement of District and International recipients……………………………………………...............……….1 July