Shirley Licup is a distinguished civic leader, women’s advocate, and community volunteer whose passion for service has positively impacted countless lives through humanitarian initiatives, leadership development, and women’s empowerment. As President of the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II for the 2024–2026 Biennium, she has led the club with vision, compassion, and purpose, advancing Zonta International’s mission of building a better world for women and girls through meaningful advocacy and sustainable community programs.
Under her leadership, the club launched and strengthened numerous flagship initiatives focusing on women’s health, education, livelihood, leadership development, and social responsibility. Among the highlights of her presidency was “A Better World with Zonta – The Concert,” a landmark fundraising event featuring acclaimed Filipino singer Bituin Escalante, which generated support for the training and accreditation of OB-GYN residents at Mary Johnston Hospital and humanitarian programs benefiting Wipe Every Tear, an organization dedicated to the rescue and restoration of women. Her administration also championed medical missions, scholarship assistance, livelihood projects, environmental stewardship, youth engagement, and partnerships with government agencies, hospitals, educational institutions, and civil society organizations.
President Licup firmly believes that empowering women creates stronger families and more resilient communities. Throughout her term, she has inspired collaborative leadership by forging strategic partnerships that promote healthcare, education, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and gender equality. She has also encouraged women to become confident leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers capable of transforming their communities through service and compassion.
One of the defining hallmarks of her presidency has been her unwavering commitment to women’s economic empowerment. Inspired by the story of Julie Apali, whom she featured during her inaugural address as a symbol of resilience and transformation, President Licup fulfilled her promise to create more “Julies” by supporting livelihood training, mentoring women entrepreneurs, and promoting programs that provide sustainable income opportunities for marginalized women. Her leadership has demonstrated that investing in women’s potential creates lasting and far-reaching social impact.
During her tenure, the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II earned numerous distinctions in recognition of its outstanding service and organizational excellence, including the prestigious Gold Award for Most Outstanding Club in Area 1. President Licup herself was honored with the Trailblazer / Best President Award, reflecting her visionary leadership, innovative programs, and unwavering dedication to Zonta’s ideals.
Beyond awards and accomplishments, Shirley Licup is recognized for her servant leadership, humility, and ability to unite people around a common purpose. She continues to inspire fellow Zontians and community partners by demonstrating that genuine leadership is measured not by titles, but by lives touched, communities strengthened, and opportunities created for others.
Guided by the Zonta ideals of service, advocacy, integrity, and empowerment, President Shirley Licup leaves a legacy defined by compassion in action, collaborative leadership, and an enduring commitment to creating a more equitable, inclusive, and hopeful future for women, girls, and communities throughout the Philippines.
