DESPITE their significant role in societies, many women around the world continue to suffer in silence due to issues such as gender inequality, abuse and violence.

To empower women and children in underprivileged communities, Zonta International was established. The organization operates on a local and international scale. Under this, the Zonta International District 17 covers six Asian countries and regions, specifically the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau, Thailand and Malaysia.

In the Philippines, 58 Zonta clubs are working together to give women access to education, health care, economic opportunities and safe living conditions. They help identify issues in each community and provide services or solutions tailored to local needs — all while ensuring gender equality is kept.

In its commitment to build a better world for women and children, officers and members of the Zonta International District 17 initiated an art exhibition fundraiser, titled “Her story in colors: Celebrating diversity and creativity of women,” at the Galerie du Soleil in Taguig.

Running until September 25, the exhibition features the artistic interpretations of women artists on the subjects of women’s strength, resilience and empowerment.

“All participants this year have their own stories to tell about their rights, adversities and trials,” curator Danny Rayos del Sol said during the event’s opening.

The art show is a project of the Zonta Club of Fort Bonifacio, led by Maria Teresa “Tess” Rayos del Sol, in collaboration with renowned Filipina artists and art groups such as Floral Artists of Manila, Lambana Angono Women Artists Collective and Female Art Addicts.

All proceeds from this exhibit will be channeled into the Zonta Foundation for Women, in support of their programs for education and empowerment.

Women artists whose works are featured at the exhibit include Addie Cukingnan, Ape Castillo, Ayen Quias, Candida Dee, Celeste Lecaroz, Chie Cruz, Cj Del Rosario, Claudia Luz, Cling Vega, Eileen Bondoc-Escueta, Flor Baradi, Gem Blanco, Hazel Miranda, Isah Rodillo, Jeanette Kamphuis, Jeanette Perez-Ongpin, Jinky Rayo, Jeanne Belmonte, Julia Lopue, Katya Angara, Karen Castrillo-Villaseñor, Keiye Miranda, Lady Visconde, Lanelle Abueva, Lara Latosa, Lisa de Leon-Zayco, Likha Malaya, Lousell Camus, Lydia Velasco, Margarita Lim, Marge Organo, Mylene Quito, Mary Ann Reyes, Melissa Yeung Yap, Meneline Wong, Naomi Banal, Pia Dacanay, Racmah Dirumpongan, Sarah Geneblazo, Sheila Tiangco, Shirley Tan and Wenzyl Mallari.

In support of the cause, 27 out of the 70 art pieces on display in the exhibition are generously donated by several female artists.

Some of the pieces that art enthusiasts have the opportunity to acquire and admire at the exhibit include an exquisite Sto. Nino glass sculpture, titled “Sto. Nino of My Heart,” by esteemed glass sculptor Organo, metal artworks by Villaseñor, a collection of maioliche plates by Rene Ongpin, and wood collage sculptures, titled “Weight of the World” and “Connected Memories,” by Quias.

“Through this art show, we hope to build a better world for women and girls to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities. We believe that a better world for women is a better world for all,” Primitiva “Baby” Perez-Sison, organizing committee head of the 22nd Zonta District 17 conference, said.

Tess Rayos del Sol, the art exhibit organizer, added, “If women are loved, respected and empowered, households will be happy and the community will flourish. Therefore, the organization helps women be empowered, safe and protected.”

Meanwhile, following the art exhibition at the Galerie du Soleil, the Zonta 22nd District 17 conference will take place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, from September 26 to October 1, where the artworks from the exhibit will also be on display.

Armita Rufino, president of Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. and Zonta special events head, says the conference will have a marketplace composed of 50 concessionaires selling local products and more.