Zonta Club of Brussel Zavel's polar plunge

On 26 January, the Zonta Club of Brussel Zavel, Belgium, hosted an unforgettable fundraising event under the Zonta Says NOW campaign, bringing together participants for a daring Polar Plunge to support charitable initiatives.

Despite the winter chill, adventurous participants—affectionately called Polar Bears—took the plunge into an unheated outdoor pool to raise funds for Zonta’s mission. For a €40 entry fee, each participant received a 20-minute warm-up session with a professional physiotherapist, a thrilling dip in the 5.3°C pool, a 15-minute recovery in a mobile sauna and a warm treat of homemade pumpkin soup and tea.

In addition to their personal challenge, each Polar Bear recruited sponsors who contributed €25 each to support the cause. Sponsors were encouraged to attend and cheer on the participants, with a complimentary bowl of soup awarded if their Polar Bear completed the plunge.

The event successfully raised €7,200 for charity while amplifying the Zonta Says NOW campaign, which advocates for gender-equal climate justice and disaster preparedness. The initiative highlights how women, especially in agriculture-dependent countries, face disproportionate challenges due to climate change while remaining underrepresented in decision-making roles.

Beyond its fundraising impact, the Polar Plunge created lasting memories and strengthened the community through an inspiring and joyful experience. Through this bold initiative, the club proved that even the coldest plunge can spark the warmest change.