Zonta Italy Award 2025

On 27 May, the official Zonta Italy Award 2025 ceremony was held at the prestigious Palazzo Isimbardi, celebrating a new national scholarship for young women in fashion, design, craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.

The inaugural edition, focused entirely on fashion, drew 143 applications from across Italy, highlighting both strong interest and the growing need to support women’s creative talent. The €7,000 scholarship was awarded to Sofia Fabris, a second-year Fashion Design student at Next Fashion School in Padua, recognized for her originality, forward-thinking vision and commitment to sustainability in fashion.

Organized by Zonta Italy with support from the Natale Ferrario Foundation, the initiative emphasized collaboration, equity and empowerment. A standout moment was the address by Dr. Amedeo Maddaluno, partner at Transearch, whose talk, “Female Talent: Valuing it Beyond Stereotypes,” encouraged deeper reflection on workplace gender bias and strategies to foster professional equality.

The event brought together institutional leaders and representatives from the fashion industry and Zonta International, including Zonta International President-Elect Fernanda Gallo Freschi; District 28 Governor Kathrin Laubasher; Lt. Governor Zelinda Legge; and District 30 Area 03 Director Teresa Vallana. Enrica Ferrario and Amedeo Solimano of the Natale Ferrario Foundation also attended, along with Milan City Councilor Diana De Marchi, Women’s Council President Laura Caradonna, and fashion professionals Alessandra Rinaudo and Ida Galati, who served on the jury.

The scholarship reflects Zonta’s commitment to promoting women’s leadership and economic independence in key industries. With the support of the Women’s Council of Milan and the Metropolitan City, the award also advanced local and national advocacy for gender equity.

“This award is a great honor,” said Fabris. “It motivates me to move forward with even greater determination.” Zonta Italy President Leonilda Cussotto emphasized the organization’s continued commitment: “Zonta Italy will always stand by women. We will keep creating spaces where talent, determination, and passion are not only recognized—but empowered to thrive.”