Our Story
How Golden Z started, and what we’re building toward.
Our story
Golden Z was chartered in March 2026 as the University of Toronto’s first Zonta International student chapter, co-led by engineering students Vanessa Feng and Anna Cai. The chapter's roots trace back to their first-year engineering design course (Praxis), where they were challenged to collaborate with a local community to address a real-world problem. When they reached out to the Zonta Club of Toronto, a meaningful partnership sparked, and that is where our story truly began.
We’re part of Zonta International, a global service organization founded in 1919 in Buffalo, New York. Today Zonta clubs operate in dozens of countries, working through service and advocacy toward gender equality for women and girls, in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5. Golden Z is our chapter’s way of bringing that work onto a Canadian university campus.
The Z is for Zonta. It’s also for Gen Z — our generation stepping up to make a difference.
What is Zonta International?
Zonta International is a global organization of individuals working together to advance the rights and opportunities of women and girls. Founded in 1919, Zonta brings together members across countries to support gender equality through service, advocacy, education, and leadership development. Its work focuses on issues including ending gender-based violence, improving access to education, and creating greater opportunities for women and girls to participate fully in society. Through local clubs, international initiatives, scholarships, and partnerships, Zonta aims to create lasting change in communities around the world. Learn more at Zonta’s website.
Want to be part of it?
Meet the team, or find out how to get involved.