The ZONTA Club of Miami Lakes awarded its 2026 Amelia Earhart Scholarships to two students at Florida International University’s College of Engineering and Computing.
Rahmina Rubaiat and Nikita Singhi each received $1,000.
The awards were in recognition of their academic excellence and commitment to advancing research in critical fields that impact public health and safety, the ZONTA Club said.
Rubaiat, a doctoral student, is researching contamination risks associated with fire trucks and exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are found in firefighting foam and have been linked to increased cancer risk, the ZONTA Club said in a news release.
She is studying environmental and occupational exposure to the substances and how to improve safety measures for first responders.
Singhi is researching the impact of head injuries, including concussions, upon speech and communication.
She seeks to advance understanding of how traumatic brain injuries affect speech patterns and recovery, and hopes to improve therapeutic approaches and patient outcomes, according to The ZONTA Club.
ZONTA Club members Marie Korenstein; Dallas Gory; Donna Cumberland; Audrey Watkins; Sherry Jones and Monica Reina of this year’s scholarship review committee evaluated five applicants.
The Amelia Earhart Scholarship reflects ZONTA International’s ongoing commitment to empowering women through education and supporting those pursuing careers in aerospace-related sciences and engineering disciplines.
The ZONTA Club of Miami Lakes is dedicated to recognizing and uplifting women who are making meaningful contributions to their fields and communities.
Its annual fundraising Black & White Gala is set for April 25 at Miami Lakes Hotel on Main.
Tickets are $175 for a night of dancing to a DJ and chance to gamble in a casino.
The non-profit organization, with Giving Gators, is also holding a Prom Dress Drive, collecting gently used or new gowns, shoes and accessories on April 11 at the Miami Lakes Farmer’s Market, Bull Run Road and Meadow Walk, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The clothing will go to students in Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Previous events have included assisting The Women’s Breast & Heart Initiative with heart health screenings; forums to raise awareness about domestic violence and, with the Office of the State Attorney, on human trafficking; and held a Women & Wine Social fundraiser in honor of International Women’s Day.
The ZONTA’s have also chartered a Z Club at Barbara Goleman Senior High School.
During annual events such as the Main Street Festival of Lights and the Business Expo the Club, ZONTA Club members staff tables to share information about preventing domestic violence.
In November, the Miami Lakes town council recognized the Club for its public service.
For more information about the Gala and the local club and its programs, visit ZontaMiamiLakesClub.Org.