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BECAUSE THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION IS UNDERSTANDING

Get connected to a powerful local resource for international relations, global education and cultural competency. Whether you’re traveling to sister cities or participating in community programs, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of different cultures that can help foster a more peaceful, prosperous world. Learn more.

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MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE

Our global education programs are designed to support lifelong learning and cultural competence. We’re not just making people smarter. We’re making the world better.

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2026 Global Leaders in Action

Posted on by Megan Johnson

This summer marked the third year of Global Leaders in Action (GLA), a program designed to inspire students to become active global citizens and future community leaders. GLA strengthens connections between Fort Worth and its sister cities through student-led initiatives and helps students build cross-cultural communication skills.

The 2026 Global Leaders in Action program brought together student delegations from Eswatini, China, Japan, and Fort Worth for two weeks of leadership development and global bonding.

During the first week of GLA, students stayed in dorms at the University of Texas at Arlington. At UTA, they participated in an interactive curriculum focused on leadership, communication, and global perspectives. Students were challenged to ask difficult questions, consider different viewpoints, and explore what it means to be a leader in an increasingly interconnected world. Delegations had the opportunity to share their culture through group presentations, traditional dances, and songs.

During the second week, students visited community partners engaging with the topics of Whole Health, Civic Engagement & Advocacy, and AI & Technology. Each delegation prepared a project plan of actionable steps to take in their community to address an issue related to one of the three topics. Students showcased their ideas on poster boards and presented their projects at the Closing Ceremony on July 26.

Students leave GLA not only with new knowledge and leadership skills, but also with a deeper understanding of their role as global citizens and the power they have to make a difference in their communities. We are incredibly proud of how these students challenged themselves to grow and form friendships that will last a lifetime!

Thank you to our incredible facilitators, host families, and community partners for making the 2026 Global Leaders in Action program possible.

Community Partners
  • University of Texas at Arlington
  • Group Dynamix
  • Carlo Capua, Rainwater Charitable Foundation
  • Take this Down Podcast, Ty Stimpson
  • UTA Research Institute (UTARI)
  • Texas Wesleyan University
  • City Hall
  • Kimbell Art Museum
  • UNT Health Science Center
  • Texas Christian University
  • Tarleton State Fort Worth
  • Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
  • DJ Perera and Nick Bontrager
  • Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Facilitators
  • Alexis Gross
  • Courtney Upp
  • Dheyaa AIJumaili
  • Gage Kellam
  • Greg Gross
  • Harith Abdulrahman
  • James Cornell
  • Jim Sangsvang
  • Julie Almanza
  • Kiaya Johnson
  • Preston Jezek

2026-09-02 01:30

2026 Global Leaders in Action

This summer marked the third year of Global Leaders in Action (GLA), a program designed to inspire students to become active global citizens and future community leaders. GLA strengthens connections between Fort Worth and its sister cities through student-led initiatives and helps students build cross-cultural communication skills.

The 2026 Global Leaders in Action program brought together student delegations from Eswatini, China, Japan, and Fort Worth for two weeks of leadership development and global bonding.

During the first week of GLA, students stayed in dorms at the University of Texas at Arlington. At UTA, they participated in an interactive curriculum focused on leadership, communication, and global perspectives. Students were challenged to ask difficult questions, consider different viewpoints, and explore what it means to be a leader in an increasingly interconnected world. Delegations had the opportunity to share their culture through group presentations, traditional dances, and songs.

During the second week, students visited community partners engaging with the topics of Whole Health, Civic Engagement & Advocacy, and AI & Technology. Each delegation prepared a project plan of actionable steps to take in their community to address an issue related to one of the three topics. Students showcased their ideas on poster boards and presented their projects at the Closing Ceremony on July 26.

Students leave GLA not only with new knowledge and leadership skills, but also with a deeper understanding of their role as global citizens and the power they have to make a difference in their communities. We are incredibly proud of how these students challenged themselves to grow and form friendships that will last a lifetime!

Thank you to our incredible facilitators, host families, and community partners for making the 2026 Global Leaders in Action program possible.

Community Partners
  • University of Texas at Arlington
  • Group Dynamix
  • Carlo Capua, Rainwater Charitable Foundation
  • Take this Down Podcast, Ty Stimpson
  • UTA Research Institute (UTARI)
  • Texas Wesleyan University
  • City Hall
  • Kimbell Art Museum
  • UNT Health Science Center
  • Texas Christian University
  • Tarleton State Fort Worth
  • Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
  • DJ Perera and Nick Bontrager
  • Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Facilitators
  • Alexis Gross
  • Courtney Upp
  • Dheyaa AIJumaili
  • Gage Kellam
  • Greg Gross
  • Harith Abdulrahman
  • James Cornell
  • Jim Sangsvang
  • Julie Almanza
  • Kiaya Johnson
  • Preston Jezek

Thank you to our Summer Facilitators and Interns

Posted on by Megan Johnson

As summer is wrapping up, we would like to give a huge thank you to our facilitators and interns. Our summer programming would not be possible without all their hard work and dedication.

  • Alexis Gross, GLA Facilitator
  • Courtney Upp, GLA Facilitator
  • Dheyaa Al Jumaili, GLA Facilitator
  • Gage Kellam, GLA Facilitator
  • Greg Gross, GLA Facilitator
  • Harith Abdulrahman, GLA Facilitator
  • James Cornell, GLA Facilitator and International Program Coordinator Intern
  • Jim Sangsvang, GLA Facilitator
  • Julie Almanza, GLA Facilitator
  • Kiaya Johnson, GLA Facilitator
  • Preston Jezek, GLA Facilitator
  • Gabby Price, International Program Coordinator Intern
  • Oliva Reichard, International Program Coordinator Intern
  • Niina Havia, Dual Language Program Coordinator Intern

Thank you again!

2026-08-04 02:50

Thank you to our Summer Facilitators and Interns

As summer is wrapping up, we would like to give a huge thank you to our facilitators and interns. Our summer programming would not be possible without all their hard work and dedication.

  • Alexis Gross, GLA Facilitator
  • Courtney Upp, GLA Facilitator
  • Dheyaa Al Jumaili, GLA Facilitator
  • Gage Kellam, GLA Facilitator
  • Greg Gross, GLA Facilitator
  • Harith Abdulrahman, GLA Facilitator
  • James Cornell, GLA Facilitator and International Program Coordinator Intern
  • Jim Sangsvang, GLA Facilitator
  • Julie Almanza, GLA Facilitator
  • Kiaya Johnson, GLA Facilitator
  • Preston Jezek, GLA Facilitator
  • Gabby Price, International Program Coordinator Intern
  • Oliva Reichard, International Program Coordinator Intern
  • Niina Havia, Dual Language Program Coordinator Intern

Thank you again!

2026 Dual Language Enrichment Camp

Posted on by Megan Johnson

We were thrilled to welcome university students from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology again this year to serve as facilitators for the Dual Language Enrichment Camp at South Hi Mount Elementary!

The Dual Language Enrichment Program is designed to provide students with an immersive learning experience to sharpen their language skills. University students taught alongside Fort Worth ISD teachers from June 15th to June 30th. The K-5 dual language students learned more than Spanish and English; they built meaningful connections and experienced firsthand what it means to be a global citizen.

While in Fort Worth, the Toluca delegation also had the opportunity to explore and give back to the community. They visited the Historic Stockyards, Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum, and Dickies Arena, and participated in community service projects at the Tarrant Area Food Bank, the Welman Project, and the Diamond Hill Community Center. They also joined the community in celebrating Mexico through the FIFA watch parties at La Gran Plaza.

The program concluded with a closing ceremony on June 30 at South Hi Mount Elementary, celebrating the students’ achievements, growth, and remarkable progress throughout their three-week immersive experience.

A heartfelt thank you to our partners across Fort Worth for welcoming this incredible delegation! And a huge thank you to our host families for opening their homes and sharing Fort Worth culture with our guests!

We are incredibly thankful for this delegation’s hard work and dedication. Your enthusiasm and dedication have inspired our Fort Worth students and teachers alike, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the opportunity to learn alongside you. ¡Te extrañaremos!

2026-07-30 01:35

2026 Dual Language Enrichment Camp

We were thrilled to welcome university students from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology again this year to serve as facilitators for the Dual Language Enrichment Camp at South Hi Mount Elementary!

The Dual Language Enrichment Program is designed to provide students with an immersive learning experience to sharpen their language skills. University students taught alongside Fort Worth ISD teachers from June 15th to June 30th. The K-5 dual language students learned more than Spanish and English; they built meaningful connections and experienced firsthand what it means to be a global citizen.

While in Fort Worth, the Toluca delegation also had the opportunity to explore and give back to the community. They visited the Historic Stockyards, Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum, and Dickies Arena, and participated in community service projects at the Tarrant Area Food Bank, the Welman Project, and the Diamond Hill Community Center. They also joined the community in celebrating Mexico through the FIFA watch parties at La Gran Plaza.

The program concluded with a closing ceremony on June 30 at South Hi Mount Elementary, celebrating the students’ achievements, growth, and remarkable progress throughout their three-week immersive experience.

A heartfelt thank you to our partners across Fort Worth for welcoming this incredible delegation! And a huge thank you to our host families for opening their homes and sharing Fort Worth culture with our guests!

We are incredibly thankful for this delegation’s hard work and dedication. Your enthusiasm and dedication have inspired our Fort Worth students and teachers alike, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the opportunity to learn alongside you. ¡Te extrañaremos!

Representing FWSCI at the U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

James Gleaton, our Youth and Education chair, and Julia King, our Nagaoka city chair, represented Fort Worth Sister Cities International at the Fort Worth Japanese Society.

They gave highlights of their time representing Fort Worth at the U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit.

Read the Newsletter here!

2026-06-02 05:06

Representing FWSCI at the U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit

James Gleaton, our Youth and Education chair, and Julia King, our Nagaoka city chair, represented Fort Worth Sister Cities International at the Fort Worth Japanese Society.

They gave highlights of their time representing Fort Worth at the U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit.

Read the Newsletter here!

Dual Language Enrichment Camp

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

In June, Fort Worth will welcome ten university students and two educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education, and the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico for a Dual Language Enrichment Camp for elementary students. The camp is held by the Toluca group and the Fort Worth ISD Emergent Bilingual Department. The Toluca university students and professors will act as facilitators for the three-week camp from June 11 to July 2 at South Hi Mount Elementary School. The program is designed to provide elementary school children with an engaging environment to reinforce and improve their language skills. The theme for the camp is Juegos sin Conexión, the idea is to show campers how much fun they can have without technology.

The Toluca facilitators and educators will be home-hosted by local families in order to give these visitors a glimpse into American life and to give the hosting families exposure to the culture of Toluca.

Our Toluca friends will explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality with visits to the Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, Sundance Square, and more.

The closing showcase for the Dual Language Camp will be held at South Hi Mount Elementary School on June 30 at 10 a.m. and is open to the public!

2026-06-02 02:56

Dual Language Enrichment Camp

In June, Fort Worth will welcome ten university students and two educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education, and the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico for a Dual Language Enrichment Camp for elementary students. The camp is held by the Toluca group and the Fort Worth ISD Emergent Bilingual Department. The Toluca university students and professors will act as facilitators for the three-week camp from June 11 to July 2 at South Hi Mount Elementary School. The program is designed to provide elementary school children with an engaging environment to reinforce and improve their language skills. The theme for the camp is Juegos sin Conexión, the idea is to show campers how much fun they can have without technology.

The Toluca facilitators and educators will be home-hosted by local families in order to give these visitors a glimpse into American life and to give the hosting families exposure to the culture of Toluca.

Our Toluca friends will explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality with visits to the Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, Sundance Square, and more.

The closing showcase for the Dual Language Camp will be held at South Hi Mount Elementary School on June 30 at 10 a.m. and is open to the public!

Young Artists, Authors and Musicians Chosen to Represent Fort Worth in 2026 International Showcase

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

For many years, Sister Cities International has used art as a powerful way to connect cultures and inspire understanding through the Young Artists and Authors Showcase (YAAS). This program invites young people from around the world to share their perspectives on a more peaceful and united future through original art, writing, and music.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International recently hosted its local competition to select student entries for the global showcase, based on the theme “Voices of Today, Visions of Tomorrow.” All participants will be celebrated, and their work displayed, at a special reception on May 14th.

Congratulations to all the artists, authors, and musicians selected to advance to the international level.

Classical Art (ages 12-14)

  • 1st Place – “A World Still Learning to Bloom” by Eva Vega, Marine Creek Middle School
  • 2nd Place – “What Life Could Be” by Kessler Whitmire, All Saints Episcopal School
  • 3rd Place – “Dear Future Me” by Meghan DeLaughter, Fort Worth Country Day

Classical Art (ages 15-18)

  • 1st Place – “Adolescent aurora” by Ruby Macnab, Central High School
  • 2nd Place – “Resonance of a Daydream: Reminisce ruins” by Alyssa Reyes, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • 3rd Place – “Remembering Nagaoka” by Chloe Swinford, Amon Carter Riverside High School
Digital Art (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “Voices for the Future” by Taylor McMillan, Fort Worth Country Day
  • 2nd Place – “The Future Starts with an Idea” by Helena McClanahan, Fort Worth Country Day
  • 3rd Place – “Your Words Create your Reality” by Sophie Ratino, Fort Worth Country Day
Photography (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “The circle, we choose to hold the world” by William Cobb, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Honorable Mention – “Small Voices, Big Futures” by Katherine Walker, Fort Worth Country Day
Photography (ages 15-18)
  • 1st Place – “A Vision” by Aiden Hernandez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • 2nd Place – “Murky Glass” by Elliott Mendez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • 3rd Place – “New Light” by Savannah Solsbery, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Honorable Mention – “The brown bench in fall” by Digory Milburn, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Honorable Mention – “Words of Tomorrow” by Makenzie White, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
Essay (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “The Voice of Truth” by Tallula Celentano, Fort Worth Country Day
Essay (ages 15-18)
  • 1st Place – “Bonnets and Blossoms” by Harmon Hong, Fort Worth Country Day
  • 2nd Place – “When The Spark Fades” by Jonathan Washington, Trinity Valley School
Poetry (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “”The Hope of the Universe” by Nadia Medlin, Fort Worth Academy
Poetry (ages 15-18)
  • 1st Place – “A Garden (Can’t Be Built) on a Wildfire” by Trang Pham, homeschooled
  • 2nd Place – “The Right Kind of Doubt” by Sivani Subramanian, Trinity Valley School
  • 3rd Place – “A View from Denali” by Eliza Stubblefield, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA

Thank you again to our judges!

  • Hilde Horchler
  • Bronwyn Logan
  • Estrus Tucker
  • Britt Stokes
  • Brian Dickson Jr.
  • Greg Bahr
  • Nicole Vallee
  • Matt Fels
  • Amber Shumake

Learn more about the Showcase on May 14th! Photo: “A Vision” by Aiden Hernandez

2026-04-30 04:41

Young Artists, Authors and Musicians Chosen to Represent Fort Worth in 2026 International Showcase

For many years, Sister Cities International has used art as a powerful way to connect cultures and inspire understanding through the Young Artists and Authors Showcase (YAAS). This program invites young people from around the world to share their perspectives on a more peaceful and united future through original art, writing, and music.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International recently hosted its local competition to select student entries for the global showcase, based on the theme “Voices of Today, Visions of Tomorrow.” All participants will be celebrated, and their work displayed, at a special reception on May 14th.

Congratulations to all the artists, authors, and musicians selected to advance to the international level.

Classical Art (ages 12-14)

  • 1st Place – “A World Still Learning to Bloom” by Eva Vega, Marine Creek Middle School
  • 2nd Place – “What Life Could Be” by Kessler Whitmire, All Saints Episcopal School
  • 3rd Place – “Dear Future Me” by Meghan DeLaughter, Fort Worth Country Day

Classical Art (ages 15-18)

  • 1st Place – “Adolescent aurora” by Ruby Macnab, Central High School
  • 2nd Place – “Resonance of a Daydream: Reminisce ruins” by Alyssa Reyes, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • 3rd Place – “Remembering Nagaoka” by Chloe Swinford, Amon Carter Riverside High School
Digital Art (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “Voices for the Future” by Taylor McMillan, Fort Worth Country Day
  • 2nd Place – “The Future Starts with an Idea” by Helena McClanahan, Fort Worth Country Day
  • 3rd Place – “Your Words Create your Reality” by Sophie Ratino, Fort Worth Country Day
Photography (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “The circle, we choose to hold the world” by William Cobb, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Honorable Mention – “Small Voices, Big Futures” by Katherine Walker, Fort Worth Country Day
Photography (ages 15-18)
  • 1st Place – “A Vision” by Aiden Hernandez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • 2nd Place – “Murky Glass” by Elliott Mendez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • 3rd Place – “New Light” by Savannah Solsbery, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Honorable Mention – “The brown bench in fall” by Digory Milburn, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Honorable Mention – “Words of Tomorrow” by Makenzie White, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
Essay (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “The Voice of Truth” by Tallula Celentano, Fort Worth Country Day
Essay (ages 15-18)
  • 1st Place – “Bonnets and Blossoms” by Harmon Hong, Fort Worth Country Day
  • 2nd Place – “When The Spark Fades” by Jonathan Washington, Trinity Valley School
Poetry (ages 12-14)
  • 1st Place – “”The Hope of the Universe” by Nadia Medlin, Fort Worth Academy
Poetry (ages 15-18)
  • 1st Place – “A Garden (Can’t Be Built) on a Wildfire” by Trang Pham, homeschooled
  • 2nd Place – “The Right Kind of Doubt” by Sivani Subramanian, Trinity Valley School
  • 3rd Place – “A View from Denali” by Eliza Stubblefield, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA

Thank you again to our judges!

  • Hilde Horchler
  • Bronwyn Logan
  • Estrus Tucker
  • Britt Stokes
  • Brian Dickson Jr.
  • Greg Bahr
  • Nicole Vallee
  • Matt Fels
  • Amber Shumake

Learn more about the Showcase on May 14th! Photo: “A Vision” by Aiden Hernandez

Fort Worth Hospitality Training

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth is preparing to welcome visitors from around the globe and we want our community to be ready.

Leadership Fort Worth and Visit Fort Worth have teamed up to create specialized ambassador trainings for volunteers. Whether you serve on the front lines of customer service, volunteer at events, or simply love representing our city, these exciting training opportunities are available to help you confidently showcase everything Fort Worth has to offer.

Fort Worth Host Training

The Fort Worth Host Training was designed to equip frontline hospitality professionals with relevant, engaging education that benefits anyone representing Fort Worth.

This 90-minute, self-paced course can be started and stopped at your convenience, making it easy to complete on your schedule.

What you’ll gain:

  • A deeper understanding of Fort Worth’s history, culture, and attractions
  • Tools to confidently represent and promote the city
  • Best practices for creating exceptional visitor experiences

Upon completion, participants will receive:

  • An official digital certificate
  • A physical and digital Fort Worth Host lapel pin

This training will remain available for years to come and will be updated annually to ensure information stays current and accurate.

ENROLL HERE for the Fort Worth Host Training.

Fort Worth Soccer Ambassador Training

With global soccer excitement building, the Fort Worth Soccer Ambassador Training was created to prepare our community to welcome international visitors with knowledge and cultural awareness.

This 90-minute, self-paced course provides education on:

  • The World Cup
  • Participating countries
  • Best practices for appropriately and effectively engaging with visitors from around the world

While you may complete the course at your convenience, we encourage finishing within 1–2 weeks.

Upon completion, participants will receive an official digital certificate.

ENROLL HERE for the Fort Worth Soccer Ambassador Training.

Please note: This training will only be available through August.

To learn more, click here.

2026-02-27 02:26

Fort Worth Hospitality Training

Fort Worth is preparing to welcome visitors from around the globe and we want our community to be ready.

Leadership Fort Worth and Visit Fort Worth have teamed up to create specialized ambassador trainings for volunteers. Whether you serve on the front lines of customer service, volunteer at events, or simply love representing our city, these exciting training opportunities are available to help you confidently showcase everything Fort Worth has to offer.

Fort Worth Host Training

The Fort Worth Host Training was designed to equip frontline hospitality professionals with relevant, engaging education that benefits anyone representing Fort Worth.

This 90-minute, self-paced course can be started and stopped at your convenience, making it easy to complete on your schedule.

What you’ll gain:

  • A deeper understanding of Fort Worth’s history, culture, and attractions
  • Tools to confidently represent and promote the city
  • Best practices for creating exceptional visitor experiences

Upon completion, participants will receive:

  • An official digital certificate
  • A physical and digital Fort Worth Host lapel pin

This training will remain available for years to come and will be updated annually to ensure information stays current and accurate.

ENROLL HERE for the Fort Worth Host Training.

Fort Worth Soccer Ambassador Training

With global soccer excitement building, the Fort Worth Soccer Ambassador Training was created to prepare our community to welcome international visitors with knowledge and cultural awareness.

This 90-minute, self-paced course provides education on:

  • The World Cup
  • Participating countries
  • Best practices for appropriately and effectively engaging with visitors from around the world

While you may complete the course at your convenience, we encourage finishing within 1–2 weeks.

Upon completion, participants will receive an official digital certificate.

ENROLL HERE for the Fort Worth Soccer Ambassador Training.

Please note: This training will only be available through August.

To learn more, click here.

Student Ambassadors to Visit France and Italy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth students and leaders depart this month for Nimes, France and Reggio Emilia, Italy. Delegations are led by educators from the FWISD, private schools, and universities. On February 10th, the students attended a Fort Worth City Council where Mayor Mattie Parker administered the Citizen Diplomat Oath to the students and their Delegation Leaders in preparation for their upcoming youth exchanges. Students complete a vigorous selection process including personal interviews and are selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Youth Ambassadors each year by Fort Worth Sister Cities. Applications are available for all students, as well as funding to support many. Through these experiences, students benefit from a global education, as well as learn valuable leadership skills. Their understanding and respect of other cultures also increases which enhances their college and career opportunities. When the students return to their local campuses, they share the lessons learned while abroad with others, helping make Fort Worth more globally fluent. More students will be traveling this summer.

Nimes, France
  • Chloe Adams, Southwest Christian High School
  • Marely Arguello, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Elizabeth Brown, Birdville High School
  • Sloane Criado, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Katherine Nytko, Science, Etc. Home School
  • Alyssa Reyes, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Zoe Williams, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Annabel Young, Southwest Christian High School
  • Dakota Vega, TCC South Collegiate High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Alexis Gross, All Saints Episcopal Middle School
  • Greg Gross, All Saints Episcopal High School
Reggio Emilia, Italy
  • Isabelle Almanza, Southwest High School
  • Daniel Barreto, World Languages Institute
  • Jackson Cross, All Saints Episcopal High School
  • Daisy Daniels, Western Hills High School
  • Clara Enlow, All Saints Episcopal High School
  • Romelia Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Elizabeth Nytko, Science Etc. Home School
  • Chloe Soule, Southwest High School
  • Sophia Tinley, All Saints Episcopal High School
  • Victoria Tran, Nolan Catholic High School
Delegations Leaders
  • Monica Prochnow, Tarrant County College
  • Brian Wooddell, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

2026-02-19 03:44

Student Ambassadors to Visit France and Italy

Fort Worth students and leaders depart this month for Nimes, France and Reggio Emilia, Italy. Delegations are led by educators from the FWISD, private schools, and universities. On February 10th, the students attended a Fort Worth City Council where Mayor Mattie Parker administered the Citizen Diplomat Oath to the students and their Delegation Leaders in preparation for their upcoming youth exchanges. Students complete a vigorous selection process including personal interviews and are selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Youth Ambassadors each year by Fort Worth Sister Cities. Applications are available for all students, as well as funding to support many. Through these experiences, students benefit from a global education, as well as learn valuable leadership skills. Their understanding and respect of other cultures also increases which enhances their college and career opportunities. When the students return to their local campuses, they share the lessons learned while abroad with others, helping make Fort Worth more globally fluent. More students will be traveling this summer.

Nimes, France

  • Chloe Adams, Southwest Christian High School
  • Marely Arguello, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Elizabeth Brown, Birdville High School
  • Sloane Criado, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Katherine Nytko, Science, Etc. Home School
  • Alyssa Reyes, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Zoe Williams, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Annabel Young, Southwest Christian High School
  • Dakota Vega, TCC South Collegiate High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Alexis Gross, All Saints Episcopal Middle School
  • Greg Gross, All Saints Episcopal High School
Reggio Emilia, Italy
  • Isabelle Almanza, Southwest High School
  • Daniel Barreto, World Languages Institute
  • Jackson Cross, All Saints Episcopal High School
  • Daisy Daniels, Western Hills High School
  • Clara Enlow, All Saints Episcopal High School
  • Romelia Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Elizabeth Nytko, Science Etc. Home School
  • Chloe Soule, Southwest High School
  • Sophia Tinley, All Saints Episcopal High School
  • Victoria Tran, Nolan Catholic High School
Delegations Leaders
  • Monica Prochnow, Tarrant County College
  • Brian Wooddell, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2026 Youth Exchanges

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2026! Students go through a rigorous application and interview process before being selected for travel to one of our sister cities. After selection, students attend cultural orientations to prepare for travel abroad and to get to know the culture of their destination.

A special congratulations to Michael Rodriguez who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for his excellence in community service and leadership. Michael will be using the scholarship to travel to Trier, Germany in the spring.

Budapest, Hungary

  • Marely Arguello, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Shreya Barat, Coppell High School
  • Elizabeth Brown, Birdville High School
  • Miles Brown, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Katherine Nytko, Science, Etc./Home School
  • Eliza Stubblefield, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Trinity Crockett, T.R.E.E. Academy
  • Hao Tran, Trimble Tech High School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Alexandra Rodriguez, University of Texas at Arlington

Mbabane, Eswatini

  • Charles Cady, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Mackenzie Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Kennedy Laster, Ray Braswell High School
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Maxwelle McPhaull, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
  • Hassan Piaubert, Game Development and Design School
  • Michael Phillips, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Paige Collins, Fort Worth Sister Cities International
  • Brandy Sapp, DAS, Inc.
  • Courtney Upp, Stuard Elementary

Nagaoka, Japan

  • Sherlyn Avelar, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Hannah Cady, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Grace Campos, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Jacob Galindo, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Jacob Hernandez, Charlene Mckinzey STEM Academy
  • Ella Holbrook, World Languages Institute
  • Jaden Lowery, TCC Southeast Mansfield ISD Early College High School
  • Tanatswa Manyande, Aledo High School
  • Jacob Martinez, Trimble Tech High School
  • Vanessa Patino, World Languages Institute
  • Drew Rhodes, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Mia Rico, Stripling Middle School
  • Gene Starr, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Rachel Hackworth, FWISD Homebound
  • Megan Johnson, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Maria Castruita, University of North Texas

Nagaoka, Japan – Harashin

  • Marlee Allen, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Akshaya Balaji, Coppell High School
  • Will Conner, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Nate Hackworth, Trinity Valley School
  • Riley Ledesma, Southwest High School
  • Sophia Mora, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Amanda Quintana, North Side High School
  • Mason Rawlins, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Alternate: Andrea Herrera, Cristo Rey Fort Worth
  • Alternate: Dakota Vega, TCC South FWISD Collegiate High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Nicole Erickson, Tarrant County College
  • Rubi Roy, University of Texas at Arlington

Nimes, France

  • Chloe Adams, Southwest Christian School
  • Alexander Angon, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Akshaya Balaji, Coppell High School
  • Sloane Criado, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Bela Jackson, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Alyssa Reyes, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Dakota Vega, TCC South FWISD Collegiate High School
  • Zoe Williams, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Annabel Young, Southwest Christian School
Delegation Leaders
  • Alexis Gross, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Greg Gross, All Saints’ Episcopal School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Sarai Flores, University of Texas at Arlington

Reggio Emilia, Italy

  • Isabelle Almanza, Southwest High School
  • Daniel Barreto, World Languages Institute
  • Jackson Cross, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Daisy Daniels, Western Hills High School
  • Clara Enlow, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Romelia Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Kennedi Kula, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Elizabeth Nytko, Science, Etc./Home School
  • Chloe Soule, Southwest High School
  • Sophia Tinley, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Victoria Tran, Nolan Catholic High School
Delegations Leaders
  • Monica Prochnow, Tarrant County College
  • Brian Wooddell, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Trier, Germany

  • Solomon Bode, Southwest Christian School
  • Abigail Dzurik, Fort Worth Country Day High School
  • Natalie Flores, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Adam Gamero, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Angel Garcia, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Andrea Herrera, Cristo Rey Fort Worth
  • Jimena Luna, Bethesda Christian School
  • Michael Rodriguez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Bowie Royal, Aledo High School
  • Tori Thurmond, R.L. Paschal High School
Delegation Leaders
  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Elizabeth Kuhns, Annetta Elementary School

Bandung, Indonesia June 2027

  • Akshaya Balaji, Coppell High School
  • Elizabeth Brown, Birdville High School
  • Will Conner, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Abigail Dzurik, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Natalie Flores, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Jacob Galindo, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Aiden Gutierrez, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Kennedy Laster, Braswell High School
  • Amanda Quintana, North Side High School
  • Michael Rodriguez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
Delegation Leaders
  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
 

2025-11-20 03:06

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2026 Youth Exchanges

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2026! Students go through a rigorous application and interview process before being selected for travel to one of our sister cities. After selection, students attend cultural orientations to prepare for travel abroad and to get to know the culture of their destination.

A special congratulations to Michael Rodriguez who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for his excellence in community service and leadership. Michael will be using the scholarship to travel to Trier, Germany in the spring.

Budapest, Hungary

  • Marely Arguello, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Shreya Barat, Coppell High School
  • Elizabeth Brown, Birdville High School
  • Miles Brown, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Katherine Nytko, Science, Etc./Home School
  • Eliza Stubblefield, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Trinity Crockett, T.R.E.E. Academy
  • Hao Tran, Trimble Tech High School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Alexandra Rodriguez, University of Texas at Arlington

Mbabane, Eswatini

  • Charles Cady, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Mackenzie Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Kennedy Laster, Ray Braswell High School
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Maxwelle McPhaull, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
  • Hassan Piaubert, Game Development and Design School
  • Michael Phillips, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Paige Collins, Fort Worth Sister Cities International
  • Brandy Sapp, DAS, Inc.
  • Courtney Upp, Stuard Elementary

Nagaoka, Japan

  • Sherlyn Avelar, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Hannah Cady, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Grace Campos, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Jacob Galindo, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Jacob Hernandez, Charlene Mckinzey STEM Academy
  • Ella Holbrook, World Languages Institute
  • Jaden Lowery, TCC Southeast Mansfield ISD Early College High School
  • Tanatswa Manyande, Aledo High School
  • Jacob Martinez, Trimble Tech High School
  • Vanessa Patino, World Languages Institute
  • Drew Rhodes, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Mia Rico, Stripling Middle School
  • Gene Starr, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Rachel Hackworth, FWISD Homebound
  • Megan Johnson, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Maria Castruita, University of North Texas

Nagaoka, Japan – Harashin

  • Marlee Allen, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Akshaya Balaji, Coppell High School
  • Will Conner, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Nate Hackworth, Trinity Valley School
  • Riley Ledesma, Southwest High School
  • Sophia Mora, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Amanda Quintana, North Side High School
  • Mason Rawlins, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Alternate: Andrea Herrera, Cristo Rey Fort Worth
  • Alternate: Dakota Vega, TCC South FWISD Collegiate High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Nicole Erickson, Tarrant County College
  • Rubi Roy, University of Texas at Arlington

Nimes, France

  • Chloe Adams, Southwest Christian School
  • Alexander Angon, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Akshaya Balaji, Coppell High School
  • Sloane Criado, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Bela Jackson, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Alyssa Reyes, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Dakota Vega, TCC South FWISD Collegiate High School
  • Zoe Williams, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Annabel Young, Southwest Christian School
Delegation Leaders
  • Alexis Gross, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Greg Gross, All Saints’ Episcopal School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Sarai Flores, University of Texas at Arlington

Reggio Emilia, Italy

  • Isabelle Almanza, Southwest High School
  • Daniel Barreto, World Languages Institute
  • Jackson Cross, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Daisy Daniels, Western Hills High School
  • Clara Enlow, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Romelia Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Kennedi Kula, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Elizabeth Nytko, Science, Etc./Home School
  • Chloe Soule, Southwest High School
  • Sophia Tinley, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Victoria Tran, Nolan Catholic High School
Delegations Leaders
  • Monica Prochnow, Tarrant County College
  • Brian Wooddell, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Trier, Germany

  • Solomon Bode, Southwest Christian School
  • Abigail Dzurik, Fort Worth Country Day High School
  • Natalie Flores, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Adam Gamero, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Angel Garcia, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Andrea Herrera, Cristo Rey Fort Worth
  • Jimena Luna, Bethesda Christian School
  • Michael Rodriguez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Bowie Royal, Aledo High School
  • Tori Thurmond, R.L. Paschal High School
Delegation Leaders
  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Elizabeth Kuhns, Annetta Elementary School

Bandung, Indonesia June 2027

  • Akshaya Balaji, Coppell High School
  • Elizabeth Brown, Birdville High School
  • Will Conner, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Abigail Dzurik, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Natalie Flores, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Jacob Galindo, Amon Carter-Riverside High School
  • Aiden Gutierrez, All Saints’ Episcopal School
  • Kennedy Laster, Braswell High School
  • Amanda Quintana, North Side High School
  • Michael Rodriguez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
Delegation Leaders
  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
 

Fort Worth and Reggio Emilia Mark 40 Years of Enduring Italian-Texan Partnership

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth Sister Cities International celebrated a remarkable milestone last week, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Fort Worth, Texas and Reggio Emilia, Italy. The anniversary celebration, held at the Bastion, brought together community leaders, founding members, and dedicated volunteers who have nurtured this special trans-Atlantic friendship since its establishment on October 29, 1985.

The anniversary event honored four decades of cultural exchange, educational collaboration, and lasting friendships between the two cities. Fort Worth City Council Member Michael Crain joined founding members of the partnership, past Reggio Emilia Committee Chairs, board members, current members, and Reggio Committee volunteers to reflect on the achievements and meaningful connections forged over the past 40 years.

The celebration featured a special performance by the Fort Worth Youth Orchestra, who performed two Italian pieces in honor of the occasion, bringing the spirit of Italy to the heart of Texas. Attendees also viewed a congratulatory video message from Reggio Emilia Mayor Marco Massari, who shared greetings and reflections on the enduring bond between the two cities. PreGel generously donated authentic Italian gelato and sweet treats to the event, adding a delicious taste of Italy to the festivities.

The celebration recognized the dedication of volunteers and leaders who have sustained this partnership across generations, maintaining the vision of those who first established the sister city relationship in 1985. The event provided an opportunity to honor the founding members whose pioneering efforts laid the groundwork for four decades of collaboration, as well as the many committee chairs and volunteers who have carried the mission forward.

The Fort Worth-Reggio Emilia sister city relationship has become known for its rich cultural and educational exchanges, including the internationally renowned Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, which has influenced educators throughout the Fort Worth community and beyond. The partnership has also facilitated numerous delegations, artistic collaborations, and business connections between the two cities.

“This 40th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but a recommitment to the future,” said Kippen de Alba Chu, President/CEO of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. “The relationships built between Fort Worth and Reggio Emilia continue to create opportunities for our residents to engage with the world and understand different cultures.”

Fort Worth Sister Cities International extends its gratitude to all the volunteers, committee members, community partners, and sponsors like PreGel who have contributed to making the Fort Worth-Reggio Emilia relationship one of the organization’s most vibrant and enduring partnerships.

For more information about Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the Reggio Emilia partnership, click here.

2025-10-28 02:38

Fort Worth and Reggio Emilia Mark 40 Years of Enduring Italian-Texan Partnership

Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth Sister Cities International celebrated a remarkable milestone last week, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Fort Worth, Texas and Reggio Emilia, Italy. The anniversary celebration, held at the Bastion, brought together community leaders, founding members, and dedicated volunteers who have nurtured this special trans-Atlantic friendship since its establishment on October 29, 1985.

The anniversary event honored four decades of cultural exchange, educational collaboration, and lasting friendships between the two cities. Fort Worth City Council Member Michael Crain joined founding members of the partnership, past Reggio Emilia Committee Chairs, board members, current members, and Reggio Committee volunteers to reflect on the achievements and meaningful connections forged over the past 40 years.

The celebration featured a special performance by the Fort Worth Youth Orchestra, who performed two Italian pieces in honor of the occasion, bringing the spirit of Italy to the heart of Texas. Attendees also viewed a congratulatory video message from Reggio Emilia Mayor Marco Massari, who shared greetings and reflections on the enduring bond between the two cities. PreGel generously donated authentic Italian gelato and sweet treats to the event, adding a delicious taste of Italy to the festivities.

The celebration recognized the dedication of volunteers and leaders who have sustained this partnership across generations, maintaining the vision of those who first established the sister city relationship in 1985. The event provided an opportunity to honor the founding members whose pioneering efforts laid the groundwork for four decades of collaboration, as well as the many committee chairs and volunteers who have carried the mission forward.

The Fort Worth-Reggio Emilia sister city relationship has become known for its rich cultural and educational exchanges, including the internationally renowned Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, which has influenced educators throughout the Fort Worth community and beyond. The partnership has also facilitated numerous delegations, artistic collaborations, and business connections between the two cities.

“This 40th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but a recommitment to the future,” said Kippen de Alba Chu, President/CEO of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. “The relationships built between Fort Worth and Reggio Emilia continue to create opportunities for our residents to engage with the world and understand different cultures.”

Fort Worth Sister Cities International extends its gratitude to all the volunteers, committee members, community partners, and sponsors like PreGel who have contributed to making the Fort Worth-Reggio Emilia relationship one of the organization’s most vibrant and enduring partnerships.

For more information about Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the Reggio Emilia partnership, click here.