Area 05
Zonta Clubs Essen I, Essen II and Oberhausen
The Zonta Clubs Essen I, Essen II and Oberhausen jointly presented the Zonta Women in Business Leadership Award on 9 July.
Eleven participants applied for this award in our three clubs; six applicants made it to the final round.
Najah Maraashly stood out as the most impressive candidate. Born in Beirut 25 years ago, she now lives in Germany for over ten years. In addition to her outstanding academic achievements – including stays abroad and internships – she has a remarkable portfolio of voluntary work. Ms Maraashly studied in Düsseldorf and Shanghai and has her own start-up to open up university education paths for pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. We are delighted to support Ms Maraashly with prize money of €1500.
Second place was awarded twice: Antonia Galland and Nana Apetor share it with €500 prize money each. Nana Apetor studied economics and management and in her voluntary work she is committed to diversity.
Antonia Galland will continue her bachelor’s degree in Berkeley, California, with a master’s degree in Cambridge, England. The athletic award winner is also captain of the university rowing team.
The Zonta Clubs Essen I, Essen II and Oberhausen are proud of these young women who support our Zonta mission strongly and confidently.
Photo @ Zonta Club Essen I
Zonta Club of Münster
On 17 July 2025 the Zonta Club of Münster presented for the third time the Women in Business Leadership Award – an evening full of inspiration, appreciation and impressive women.
Five committed female applicants (Karen Schürmeyer 1st place; Paula Menninghaus and Malena Meyer 2nd place as well as Nour Edelbi and Celine Wappler) presented themselves and their visions for an equal future. Each of them embodies the values that we at Zonta International have stood for over 100 years: Empowerment, education, leadership and a tireless commitment to the rights of women and girls worldwide.
Franziska Potrykus and Mechthild May-Hügmann’s empathetic moderation and personal interviews gave all the candidates the visibility they deserved. Their commitment made the evening a special experience – not only for the guests, but also for the candidates themselves, who were able to present themselves authentically in an appreciative frame.
The jury selected an impressive winner, while two applicants were awarded second place – a strong indication of how closely the candidates’ achievements and potential were matched.
“Our applicants are women who are breaking new ground with innovative strength, ethical behavior and leadership – both economically and socially,” said Almut Kellermeyer, president of the Zonta Club of Münster in her opening speech. And it was precisely this attitude that was reflected in every aspect of the evening’s program.
Karen Schürmeyer 1st place (3rd from left| Almut Kellermeyer president of ZC Münster, Germany (right)| Photo @ Zonta Stephan Kube
