Empowering women

"In India, women’s role is tough right from birth. Young school dropouts, early marriages, domestic violence are major problems,” mentioned physician Dr Rati Godrej. She was addressing the gathering as chief guest at the 38th Charter Anniversary of the Zonta Club of Bombay III at Hotel Diplomat on April 29, 2017, notes a press write-up. Besides public health, the early detection of cancer, care of the elderly and treatment for depression, trauma and frustrations, were cited by Godrej as her major concerns. Though actions may be small, but collectively they will be meaningful, was her message.

Every year Zonta felicitates women achievers who are role models for others. Flavia Agnes, legal scholar and women’s rights lawyer was the recipient of Woman of the Year Award 2017. As co-founder of Majlis, a legal and cultural resource center, she works to provide quality legal services to women and children. Hailing from a tribal farming family from Jharkhand, Anima Minj secured admission in Bombay’s Grant Medical College, standing eighth in the merit list in the physically handicapped category. Zonta presented Minj with the Encouragement Award 2017. The Special Recognition Award for the year was presented to Mumtaz Maqsood Ahmed Kazi, Central Railways’ first motor-woman. At 20 years she was the first lady to drive a diesel locomotive and after 26 years in the profession, Kazi is reportedly the first lady to drive both, diesel and electric trains.
Founder vice president of the Club Havovi Dotivala, despite being discharged from hospital a day prior, introduced the chief guest while Charter member Mahazaver Dalal welcomed other dignitaries and vice president Arnavaz Pithawalla proposed a vote of thanks. The evening’s master of ceremonies was Navaz Dhalla.
Zonta Club of Bombay III is part of Zonta International, a worldwide service organization of executives in business and professions working together to empower women through service and advocacy.