2016 AGM – Committee Reports – Advocacy (Program/UN)

Advocacy (Program/UN) Committee Report 2015 – 2016

Chair: Barb Clyde

Committee: Emily Gordon, Helen Gibson, Anne-Mary Edwards, Mary O’Dwyer (leave)

It has been another busy year for the Advocacy (Program/UN) Committee. Our role has included organising the meetings’ programs and the guest speakers. There has been a wide variety of interesting speakers, starting with a representative from the Queensland Police Force, Snr Constable Susan Lowndes, who acts as  a community liaison officer. She gave us an interesting insight into her work with local school children, as well updating us on some recent scams that could possibly affect club members. In September, we were greatly impressed by Sarah Flynn, a representative from Lily House, whose life had been turned around by this wonderful organisation that offers support to young disadvantaged women and mothers. Our October meeting’s speaker was Jean Sheehan, who is a world-renowned “Medical Intuitive”, who is passionate about her ability to empower and promote the spiritual growth of others.

Members once again enjoyed the November meeting, where the hampers were distributed and we heard from our magnificent beneficiaries and the amazing work they do.

More recently, we welcomed Manuela Darling from the Silver Lining Project, who is compiling an inspirational book to offer hope to women who are struggling; by telling the stories of women who have over come adversity.

The introduction of member profiles again, has been warmly received by members. Our foundation member, Trish Littler, gave the first profile for the year and had us all captivated with her incredible life story.

Our role also includes acknowledging and celebrating significant UN dates. At our March meeting, Barb Clyde updated us on some recent UN projects and dates and also how Zonta International has played a significant role in highlighting gender inequality issues across the world. Our committee decided that we will appoint a member to keep us all updated with UN projects/events that encompass the Zonta ideals.

A major part of our committee meetings has involved thinking of new advocacy opportunities as we all recognise there is a need to promote the Zonta brand more, in the community. Being present at events such as women’s expos, breast cancer awareness days and community rallies against domestic violence, will contribute to exposing Zonta more to the public. The use of social media will be a major tool for advocacy in the future and the printing of a simple business card, was also a recent suggestion that was well received by members. We have asked all club members to be always thinking of future advocacy opportunities to help us to continue to advance the status of women worldwide.