Nepal has marked a historic milestone in global women’s leadership as Zontian Shreejana Rana was elected to the Zonta International Board of Directors for the 2026–2028 biennium at the 67th Zonta International Convention in Vancouver, Canada.

Zonta International is a global organisation of professionals working together to build a better world for women and girls through service, advocacy, education and fellowship. With more than 1,100 clubs across 65 countries and territories, Zonta International provides a global platform for advancing women’s rights, equality and leadership.

Rana’s election marks a historic first for Nepal and the region, making her the first Nepali representative to serve on the governing board of Zonta International.

A prominent leader in Nepal’s hospitality and civic sectors and former President of the Hotel Association of Nepal, Rana has long championed women’s empowerment, leadership and social rights.

Reflecting on her historic election, Rana said: “This is a deeply humbling honour and, above all, a responsibility to represent Nepal on the global stage through Zonta International. I hope this milestone inspires young women to believe in themselves, step forward with courage, and know that no ceiling is too high to break. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve, learn, and contribute to Zonta International’s mission of building a better world for women and girls.”

The milestone comes alongside another major achievement for Zonta Club Kathmandu, which received the Zonta Excellence in Service and Advocacy Award for the second consecutive biennium. Only six clubs worldwide receive the prestigious award each biennium.

The recognition honours the Kathmandu club’s collaborative work to prevent and respond to offline and online violence against women and girls, in partnership with police agencies, the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police, legal professionals, local governments, civil society, the private sector and educational institutions.

Together, Rana’s election and Zonta Club Kathmandu’s international recognition represent a significant moment for Nepal, demonstrating the growing contribution of Nepali women to global leadership, advocacy and social change.