Category: Sister City Visitors

Local FWISD Schools Partner with FWSCI for Cultural and Educational Program

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX – Fort Worth Sister Cities International, in partnership with the World Languages Institute and Stripling Middle School, will welcome a delegation of 20 middle school students and five educational leaders from Nagaoka, Japan, October 4-12 for a cultural and educational exchange program. This annual exchange, which has been fostering international friendship for over 25 years, represents a cornerstone of the ongoing sister city relationship between Fort Worth and Nagaoka, facilitated by FWSCI’s commitment to fostering international connections.

The visiting Japanese students will experience American middle school life firsthand by attending classes alongside their Fort Worth host siblings at Stripling Middle School and World Languages Institute. This immersive approach allows students from both cultures to learn directly from one another while building lasting international friendships.

“This exchange program exemplifies Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s mission to build bridges between our community and our international partners,” said Cindy Johnson, Chairwoman of the Board at Fort Worth Sister Cities International. “These student exchanges create lasting bonds that strengthen our sister city relationships and provide invaluable cultural learning opportunities for young people on both sides of the Pacific.”

Beyond the classroom experience, the delegation will explore iconic Fort Worth attractions including the Fort Worth Zoo, one of the nation’s top-rated zoological experiences, and the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, celebrating the city’s Western heritage and cowboy culture. These visits will provide the Japanese students with authentic glimpses into both Fort Worth’s natural attractions and its rich cultural heritage.

The delegation’s visit continues a proud tradition of educational exchange that has connected hundreds of students over the years. Fort Worth Sister Cities International remains committed to sustaining this annual program, which has become a model for successful international youth diplomacy and cultural understanding.

2025-09-26 11:29

Local FWISD Schools Partner with FWSCI for Cultural and Educational Program

FORT WORTH, TX – Fort Worth Sister Cities International, in partnership with the World Languages Institute and Stripling Middle School, will welcome a delegation of 20 middle school students and five educational leaders from Nagaoka, Japan, October 4-12 for a cultural and educational exchange program. This annual exchange, which has been fostering international friendship for over 25 years, represents a cornerstone of the ongoing sister city relationship between Fort Worth and Nagaoka, facilitated by FWSCI’s commitment to fostering international connections.

The visiting Japanese students will experience American middle school life firsthand by attending classes alongside their Fort Worth host siblings at Stripling Middle School and World Languages Institute. This immersive approach allows students from both cultures to learn directly from one another while building lasting international friendships.

“This exchange program exemplifies Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s mission to build bridges between our community and our international partners,” said Cindy Johnson, Chairwoman of the Board at Fort Worth Sister Cities International. “These student exchanges create lasting bonds that strengthen our sister city relationships and provide invaluable cultural learning opportunities for young people on both sides of the Pacific.”

Beyond the classroom experience, the delegation will explore iconic Fort Worth attractions including the Fort Worth Zoo, one of the nation’s top-rated zoological experiences, and the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, celebrating the city’s Western heritage and cowboy culture. These visits will provide the Japanese students with authentic glimpses into both Fort Worth’s natural attractions and its rich cultural heritage.

The delegation’s visit continues a proud tradition of educational exchange that has connected hundreds of students over the years. Fort Worth Sister Cities International remains committed to sustaining this annual program, which has become a model for successful international youth diplomacy and cultural understanding.

Fort Worth Welcomes Japanese Nursing Students from Sister City Nagaoka for Educational Exchange

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth will welcome a delegation of nursing students from its sister city Nagaoka, Japan, for a week-long educational exchange from September 11-17, 2025. This nursing exchange represents a unique opportunity for international collaboration in healthcare education and cultural understanding.

The visiting Japanese nursing students will experience American healthcare education and practices through an immersive program featuring Texas Christian University’s nursing program, local healthcare facilities, and host family experiences.

Students will attend nursing courses, providing direct exposure to American nursing education methodologies. The delegation will visit two of Fort Worth’s premier healthcare institutions – Texas Health Resources and Cook Children’s Health Care System – offering insights into American hospital operations and pediatric care. Host families will provide authentic American experiences during free time, fostering personal connections and cultural understanding between the two sister cities. The program concludes with a presentation by the Japanese students to TCU nursing faculty and students, creating opportunities for mutual learning and international perspective sharing. “This exchange program exemplifies the power of sister city relationships in advancing healthcare education,” said Cindy Johnson, Chairwoman of the Board. “Our Japanese colleagues bring valuable perspectives on nursing practices and healthcare delivery that will enrich our students’ understanding of global healthcare approaches.”

The program represents Fort Worth’s ongoing commitment to international educational partnerships and the sister city relationship with Nagaoka, which has fostered cultural and professional exchanges for years.

This nursing exchange is coordinated through Fort Worth’s sister city program and includes academic partnerships with TCU’s nursing school, local healthcare providers, and volunteer host families. The program aims to strengthen professional relationships between healthcare educators in both cities while providing students with invaluable international experience.

2025-08-18 01:05

Fort Worth Welcomes Japanese Nursing Students from Sister City Nagaoka for Educational Exchange

Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth will welcome a delegation of nursing students from its sister city Nagaoka, Japan, for a week-long educational exchange from September 11-17, 2025. This nursing exchange represents a unique opportunity for international collaboration in healthcare education and cultural understanding.

The visiting Japanese nursing students will experience American healthcare education and practices through an immersive program featuring Texas Christian University’s nursing program, local healthcare facilities, and host family experiences.

Students will attend nursing courses, providing direct exposure to American nursing education methodologies. The delegation will visit two of Fort Worth’s premier healthcare institutions – Texas Health Resources and Cook Children’s Health Care System – offering insights into American hospital operations and pediatric care. Host families will provide authentic American experiences during free time, fostering personal connections and cultural understanding between the two sister cities. The program concludes with a presentation by the Japanese students to TCU nursing faculty and students, creating opportunities for mutual learning and international perspective sharing. “This exchange program exemplifies the power of sister city relationships in advancing healthcare education,” said Cindy Johnson, Chairwoman of the Board. “Our Japanese colleagues bring valuable perspectives on nursing practices and healthcare delivery that will enrich our students’ understanding of global healthcare approaches.”

The program represents Fort Worth’s ongoing commitment to international educational partnerships and the sister city relationship with Nagaoka, which has fostered cultural and professional exchanges for years.

This nursing exchange is coordinated through Fort Worth’s sister city program and includes academic partnerships with TCU’s nursing school, local healthcare providers, and volunteer host families. The program aims to strengthen professional relationships between healthcare educators in both cities while providing students with invaluable international experience.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International Wins Prestigious Innovation Award for Professional Exchange Program

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, Texas – July 22, 2025 – Fort Worth Sister Cities International has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Sister Cities International Innovation in Business, Trade and Professional Exchange award for populations greater than 300,001. The award recognizes the organization’s outstanding work in advancing people-to-people diplomacy through an innovative professional exchange program with Estonian municipal leaders.

The award-winning program hosted six Estonian delegates from Jan. 26 to Feb. 3, 2024, through the Congressional Office of International Leadership (COIL). The nine-day exchange focused on municipal leadership and community engagement, creating meaningful connections between Estonian and American professionals while showcasing Fort Worth’s governance approaches and community initiatives.

“This recognition highlights Fort Worth’s commitment to international engagement and citizen diplomacy,” said Fernando Costa, Governmental Affairs Chair of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. “The Estonian exchange program demonstrated how professional exchanges can build lasting relationships while addressing shared global challenges, such as public participation, urban revitalization, and housing affordability.”

The program paired professional meetings with cultural experiences and home stays, creating a comprehensive immersion experience that fostered deeper understanding between participants. Estonian delegates gained valuable insights into American approaches to municipal governance, particularly noting the strong NGO sector, volunteerism traditions, and public-private partnerships. Fort Worth participants discovered remarkable similarities between their communities despite geographical and cultural distances.

Key program highlights included meetings with Fort Worth City Council members and city officials, tours of multiple Fort Worth districts including Downtown, Historic Southside, Near Southside, and Cultural District, visits to community organizations including the Presbyterian Night Shelter and Texas Wesleyan University, professional networking with the City of Fort Worth Young Professionals, and a final presentation in the city council chambers.

The exchange involved extensive community participation, including four host families, six committee members, and numerous local professionals from organizations such as the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth Police Department, Leadership Fort Worth, and various district organizations.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International accepted the award in person at the Diplomatic Dinner and Annual Awards Reception during the 2025 Summer Leadership Meetings and Annual Business Meeting in Fort Worth on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The event featured keynote speaker Mary Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of Sister Cities International founder President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The program’s success prompted Fort Worth Sister Cities to plan for hosting another delegation in 2025, demonstrating the sustainability and value of the exchange model. Though Estonia is not an official sister city to Fort Worth, the exchange fulfilled the organization’s mission to “enrich our community through international exchange” while extending impact beyond formal sister city relationships.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International maintains partnerships with nine official sister cities and continues to expand programming through innovative approaches like the COIL framework, which provides funding opportunities for professional exchanges that advance citizen diplomacy.

2025-07-23 09:30

Fort Worth Sister Cities International Wins Prestigious Innovation Award for Professional Exchange Program

FORT WORTH, Texas – July 22, 2025 – Fort Worth Sister Cities International has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Sister Cities International Innovation in Business, Trade and Professional Exchange award for populations greater than 300,001. The award recognizes the organization’s outstanding work in advancing people-to-people diplomacy through an innovative professional exchange program with Estonian municipal leaders.

The award-winning program hosted six Estonian delegates from Jan. 26 to Feb. 3, 2024, through the Congressional Office of International Leadership (COIL). The nine-day exchange focused on municipal leadership and community engagement, creating meaningful connections between Estonian and American professionals while showcasing Fort Worth’s governance approaches and community initiatives.

“This recognition highlights Fort Worth’s commitment to international engagement and citizen diplomacy,” said Fernando Costa, Governmental Affairs Chair of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. “The Estonian exchange program demonstrated how professional exchanges can build lasting relationships while addressing shared global challenges, such as public participation, urban revitalization, and housing affordability.”

The program paired professional meetings with cultural experiences and home stays, creating a comprehensive immersion experience that fostered deeper understanding between participants. Estonian delegates gained valuable insights into American approaches to municipal governance, particularly noting the strong NGO sector, volunteerism traditions, and public-private partnerships. Fort Worth participants discovered remarkable similarities between their communities despite geographical and cultural distances.

Key program highlights included meetings with Fort Worth City Council members and city officials, tours of multiple Fort Worth districts including Downtown, Historic Southside, Near Southside, and Cultural District, visits to community organizations including the Presbyterian Night Shelter and Texas Wesleyan University, professional networking with the City of Fort Worth Young Professionals, and a final presentation in the city council chambers.

The exchange involved extensive community participation, including four host families, six committee members, and numerous local professionals from organizations such as the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth Police Department, Leadership Fort Worth, and various district organizations.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International accepted the award in person at the Diplomatic Dinner and Annual Awards Reception during the 2025 Summer Leadership Meetings and Annual Business Meeting in Fort Worth on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The event featured keynote speaker Mary Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of Sister Cities International founder President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The program’s success prompted Fort Worth Sister Cities to plan for hosting another delegation in 2025, demonstrating the sustainability and value of the exchange model. Though Estonia is not an official sister city to Fort Worth, the exchange fulfilled the organization’s mission to “enrich our community through international exchange” while extending impact beyond formal sister city relationships.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International maintains partnerships with nine official sister cities and continues to expand programming through innovative approaches like the COIL framework, which provides funding opportunities for professional exchanges that advance citizen diplomacy.

Sister City Partnership Brings Cultural Ambassadors from Nagaoka, Japan to Experience Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX – July 15, 2025 – The City of Fort Worth will welcome a delegation of Japanese students from sister city Nagaoka as part of the Harashin Scholar reciprocal exchange program, July 18-26, 2025. After the conclusion of the Fort Worth program, Fort Worth Ambassadors will travel to Nagaoka for a reciprocal experience. The prestigious cultural exchange is made possible through generous funding from Mr. Kazuhiko Hara of the Harashin Company, continuing a longstanding partnership that strengthens international ties between the two cities.

The visiting Nagaoka Ambassadors will participate in a comprehensive nine-day program designed to showcase Fort Worth’s unique blend of Western heritage, modern culture, and educational opportunities while sharing their own Japanese traditions with the local community.

“This exchange program represents the very best of sister city partnerships,” said Chairwoman of the Board Cindy Johnson. “Thanks to Mr. Hara’s continued support through the Harashin Company, we’re able to provide these young ambassadors with an authentic Texas experience while building lasting cultural bridges between our communities.”

The program features a comprehensive itinerary showcasing Fort Worth’s diverse attractions. Students will experience historic Fort Worth Stockyards, witnessing the world’s only daily cattle drive, exploring Western heritage sites, and attending an authentic Texas rodeo at the Cowboy Coliseum. Cultural district exploration includes visits to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, plus access to world-class museums including the Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum, and Modern Art Museum.

The ambassadors will enjoy an all-American baseball experience by attending a Texas Rangers game at Globe Life Field. Educational components include a Bureau of Engraving and Printing tour, TCU campus visit, and pioneer history exploration at the Log Cabin Village.

The program concludes with a cultural exchange celebration featuring Japanese cultural presentations, traditional Jinku dance instruction, and Texas line dancing lessons.

The program emphasizes reciprocal cultural sharing, with Fort Worth Ambassador students serving as hosts and tour guides throughout the visit. Local host families will provide accommodations and authentic American family experiences for the Japanese visitors.

The Harashin Scholar exchange program is a reciprocal initiative that allows students from both Fort Worth and Nagaoka to experience immersive cultural exchanges in both cities.  The program serves as a cornerstone of this partnership, developing young global citizens who serve as cultural bridges long after their exchange experience.

2025-06-25 04:51

Sister City Partnership Brings Cultural Ambassadors from Nagaoka, Japan to Experience Fort Worth

FORT WORTH, TX – July 15, 2025 – The City of Fort Worth will welcome a delegation of Japanese students from sister city Nagaoka as part of the Harashin Scholar reciprocal exchange program, July 18-26, 2025. After the conclusion of the Fort Worth program, Fort Worth Ambassadors will travel to Nagaoka for a reciprocal experience. The prestigious cultural exchange is made possible through generous funding from Mr. Kazuhiko Hara of the Harashin Company, continuing a longstanding partnership that strengthens international ties between the two cities.

The visiting Nagaoka Ambassadors will participate in a comprehensive nine-day program designed to showcase Fort Worth’s unique blend of Western heritage, modern culture, and educational opportunities while sharing their own Japanese traditions with the local community.

“This exchange program represents the very best of sister city partnerships,” said Chairwoman of the Board Cindy Johnson. “Thanks to Mr. Hara’s continued support through the Harashin Company, we’re able to provide these young ambassadors with an authentic Texas experience while building lasting cultural bridges between our communities.”

The program features a comprehensive itinerary showcasing Fort Worth’s diverse attractions. Students will experience historic Fort Worth Stockyards, witnessing the world’s only daily cattle drive, exploring Western heritage sites, and attending an authentic Texas rodeo at the Cowboy Coliseum. Cultural district exploration includes visits to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, plus access to world-class museums including the Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum, and Modern Art Museum.

The ambassadors will enjoy an all-American baseball experience by attending a Texas Rangers game at Globe Life Field. Educational components include a Bureau of Engraving and Printing tour, TCU campus visit, and pioneer history exploration at the Log Cabin Village.

The program concludes with a cultural exchange celebration featuring Japanese cultural presentations, traditional Jinku dance instruction, and Texas line dancing lessons.

The program emphasizes reciprocal cultural sharing, with Fort Worth Ambassador students serving as hosts and tour guides throughout the visit. Local host families will provide accommodations and authentic American family experiences for the Japanese visitors.

The Harashin Scholar exchange program is a reciprocal initiative that allows students from both Fort Worth and Nagaoka to experience immersive cultural exchanges in both cities.  The program serves as a cornerstone of this partnership, developing young global citizens who serve as cultural bridges long after their exchange experience.

Fort Worth ISD Announces International Dual Language Enrichment Camp in Partnership with Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth Independent School District, in partnership with Fort Worth Sister Cities International and Mexico’s prestigious Monterrey Institute of Technology, will launch the Dual Language Enrichment Camp this summer. This groundbreaking three-week program represents a one-of-a-kind collaboration that will bring seven university students from Mexico to develop and teach innovative curriculum under expert supervision, working alongside seven Fort Worth ISD teachers.

The camp will run from June 13 through July 5, 2025, at Clifford Davis Elementary School. The program is open to all currently enrolled dual language students in kindergarten through fifth grade from any FWISD campus.

“This program represents our commitment to preparing students for an interconnected world,” said Dr. Marie Mendoza, Fort Worth ISD’s Executive Director of Emergent Bilingual Programs. “By delivering rigorous academic standards with genuine cultural experiences, we’re creating an authentic language and content learning environment that goes far beyond traditional textbook education.”

The program’s unique structure features university students from Monterrey Institute of Technology developing and implementing cutting-edge curriculum under the supervision of two experienced educators. This approach allows Fort Worth students to experience innovative teaching methods while the visiting university students gain hands-on classroom experience in an international setting.

Beyond classroom instruction, the visiting group from Toluca will participate in an extensive cultural immersion program. They will explore Fort Worth’s rich heritage through visits to the Historic Stockyards, Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum, and AT&T Stadium. Community service opportunities at the Tarrant Area Food Bank and Diamond Hill Community Center will demonstrate how cultural exchange extends to serving others.

A key component of the program is the host family initiative, where Fort Worth families will open their homes to the visiting university students and educators. This element transforms the academic exchange into lasting international relationships, with families sharing meals, weekend adventures, and daily experiences that enrich the educational tapestry for all participants.

“This isn’t just language learning – it’s education through genuine human connection,” said Toluca Chair Wilma Lopez. “The host family component creates deep personal bonds that will continue long after the program ends.”

The program will conclude with a closing ceremony on July 2, celebrating the remarkable progress students will make during their three-week immersive experience. This ceremony will be open to families and the community.

This innovative camp sets a powerful precedent for future international educational collaborations, demonstrating that when educators, families, and communities unite around a shared vision, extraordinary learning opportunities emerge naturally.

2025-05-20 09:34

Fort Worth ISD Announces International Dual Language Enrichment Camp in Partnership with Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology

Fort Worth Independent School District, in partnership with Fort Worth Sister Cities International and Mexico’s prestigious Monterrey Institute of Technology, will launch the Dual Language Enrichment Camp this summer. This groundbreaking three-week program represents a one-of-a-kind collaboration that will bring seven university students from Mexico to develop and teach innovative curriculum under expert supervision, working alongside seven Fort Worth ISD teachers.

The camp will run from June 13 through July 5, 2025, at Clifford Davis Elementary School. The program is open to all currently enrolled dual language students in kindergarten through fifth grade from any FWISD campus.

“This program represents our commitment to preparing students for an interconnected world,” said Dr. Marie Mendoza, Fort Worth ISD’s Executive Director of Emergent Bilingual Programs. “By delivering rigorous academic standards with genuine cultural experiences, we’re creating an authentic language and content learning environment that goes far beyond traditional textbook education.”

The program’s unique structure features university students from Monterrey Institute of Technology developing and implementing cutting-edge curriculum under the supervision of two experienced educators. This approach allows Fort Worth students to experience innovative teaching methods while the visiting university students gain hands-on classroom experience in an international setting.

Beyond classroom instruction, the visiting group from Toluca will participate in an extensive cultural immersion program. They will explore Fort Worth’s rich heritage through visits to the Historic Stockyards, Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum, and AT&T Stadium. Community service opportunities at the Tarrant Area Food Bank and Diamond Hill Community Center will demonstrate how cultural exchange extends to serving others.

A key component of the program is the host family initiative, where Fort Worth families will open their homes to the visiting university students and educators. This element transforms the academic exchange into lasting international relationships, with families sharing meals, weekend adventures, and daily experiences that enrich the educational tapestry for all participants.

“This isn’t just language learning – it’s education through genuine human connection,” said Toluca Chair Wilma Lopez. “The host family component creates deep personal bonds that will continue long after the program ends.”

The program will conclude with a closing ceremony on July 2, celebrating the remarkable progress students will make during their three-week immersive experience. This ceremony will be open to families and the community.

This innovative camp sets a powerful precedent for future international educational collaborations, demonstrating that when educators, families, and communities unite around a shared vision, extraordinary learning opportunities emerge naturally.

Emerging Leaders from Hungary Examine Local Governance in Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of young professionals from Hungary to Fort Worth from June 13 – 21, 2025, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a facilitator form the U.S. Embassy. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the City of Fort Worth.

Prior to their arrival in Fort Worth the participants will complete an orientation in Washington, D.C.

In Fort Worth, delegates will collaborate on best practices for local governance and community engagement from local leaders in Fort Worth. Activities, organized by Assistant City Manager Valerie Washington, include visits with city officials, the Historic Southside Neighborhood Association, Near Southside, Inc., Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., Leadership Fort Worth, and more. The delegation will stay in the homes of Fort Worth residents who serve as hospitality hosts.

More than 31,000 current and future leaders have participated in the Open World program. Open World offers one of the most effective U.S. exchange programs to promote mutually beneficial options for depolarized engagement between future national leaders. It is a unique but no less powerful tool for Congress to engage legislatures in critical regions of the world.

Founded in 1999 by Congress, the Congressional Office for International Leadership maintains a vast network of more than 30,000 alumni in partner countries. It’s Open World program supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish authentic communication and enduring relations that are maintained through its extensive alumni network. Program participants are provided with exposure to the work of Congress, American politics, accountable governance, and volunteerism while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about the Open World program, please visit www.openworld.gov/.

2025-05-20 09:22

Emerging Leaders from Hungary Examine Local Governance in Fort Worth

The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of young professionals from Hungary to Fort Worth from June 13 – 21, 2025, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a facilitator form the U.S. Embassy. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the City of Fort Worth.

Prior to their arrival in Fort Worth the participants will complete an orientation in Washington, D.C.

In Fort Worth, delegates will collaborate on best practices for local governance and community engagement from local leaders in Fort Worth. Activities, organized by Assistant City Manager Valerie Washington, include visits with city officials, the Historic Southside Neighborhood Association, Near Southside, Inc., Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., Leadership Fort Worth, and more. The delegation will stay in the homes of Fort Worth residents who serve as hospitality hosts.

More than 31,000 current and future leaders have participated in the Open World program. Open World offers one of the most effective U.S. exchange programs to promote mutually beneficial options for depolarized engagement between future national leaders. It is a unique but no less powerful tool for Congress to engage legislatures in critical regions of the world.

Founded in 1999 by Congress, the Congressional Office for International Leadership maintains a vast network of more than 30,000 alumni in partner countries. It’s Open World program supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish authentic communication and enduring relations that are maintained through its extensive alumni network. Program participants are provided with exposure to the work of Congress, American politics, accountable governance, and volunteerism while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about the Open World program, please visit www.openworld.gov/.

French Exchange Students to Experience Fort Worth Culture Through Sister Cities Program

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, Texas — Fifteen students from Lycée Albert Camus in Nîmes, France, will arrive in Fort Worth on March 2 for a week-long cultural exchange program hosted by Fort Worth Country Day, World Languages Institute, and Nolan Catholic High School. The visit strengthens the sister city relationship between Fort Worth and Nîmes, which has been active since 2019.

The French students will stay with local host families and shadow their American counterparts at the three participating schools. Their itinerary combines educational experiences with quintessential Texas cultural activities, including tours of AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field, a visit to the Fort Worth Zoo, and an afternoon at the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards featuring the famous cattle drive.

“This exchange provides an invaluable opportunity for both our French visitors and Fort Worth students to gain firsthand cultural understanding and build lasting international friendships,” said Rachel Bradford, Youth & Education Chair.

The visiting students will also attend a performance of “Oklahoma” at Nolan Catholic High School and participate in special presentations at their host schools. The week concludes with a farewell potluck dinner hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International on March 8, celebrating the bonds formed between the sister cities’ young people.

This exchange program exemplifies Fort Worth’s commitment to fostering international understanding and cultural exchange through its Sister Cities program. The visiting students will return to France on March 9.

2025-02-20 04:08

French Exchange Students to Experience Fort Worth Culture Through Sister Cities Program

FORT WORTH, Texas — Fifteen students from Lycée Albert Camus in Nîmes, France, will arrive in Fort Worth on March 2 for a week-long cultural exchange program hosted by Fort Worth Country Day, World Languages Institute, and Nolan Catholic High School. The visit strengthens the sister city relationship between Fort Worth and Nîmes, which has been active since 2019.

The French students will stay with local host families and shadow their American counterparts at the three participating schools. Their itinerary combines educational experiences with quintessential Texas cultural activities, including tours of AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field, a visit to the Fort Worth Zoo, and an afternoon at the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards featuring the famous cattle drive.

“This exchange provides an invaluable opportunity for both our French visitors and Fort Worth students to gain firsthand cultural understanding and build lasting international friendships,” said Rachel Bradford, Youth & Education Chair.

The visiting students will also attend a performance of “Oklahoma” at Nolan Catholic High School and participate in special presentations at their host schools. The week concludes with a farewell potluck dinner hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International on March 8, celebrating the bonds formed between the sister cities’ young people.

This exchange program exemplifies Fort Worth’s commitment to fostering international understanding and cultural exchange through its Sister Cities program. The visiting students will return to France on March 9.

International Runners From Nimes, France Join Cowtown Marathon

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX – Eighteen runners from Fort Worth’s sister city, Nîmes, France, will participate in the upcoming Cowtown Marathon, featuring two extraordinary senior athletes aged 81 and 82 years old.

The international delegation represents a unique cultural exchange between Fort Worth and Nîmes, showcasing the cities’ ongoing sisterhood through athletic competition. These runners will join thousands of marathoners traversing Fort Worth’s diverse urban and park routes.

The group’s participation underscores the international spirit of the Cowtown Marathon and highlights the strong bond between the two cities.

Join our Nimes Committee to help welcome them to Fort Worth. Email Beth Weibel for more info.

2025-01-23 12:57

International Runners From Nimes, France Join Cowtown Marathon

FORT WORTH, TX – Eighteen runners from Fort Worth’s sister city, Nîmes, France, will participate in the upcoming Cowtown Marathon, featuring two extraordinary senior athletes aged 81 and 82 years old.

The international delegation represents a unique cultural exchange between Fort Worth and Nîmes, showcasing the cities’ ongoing sisterhood through athletic competition. These runners will join thousands of marathoners traversing Fort Worth’s diverse urban and park routes.

The group’s participation underscores the international spirit of the Cowtown Marathon and highlights the strong bond between the two cities.

Join our Nimes Committee to help welcome them to Fort Worth. Email Beth Weibel for more info.

Sister Cities Celebrates 30 Years of Fostering Cultural Exchange Between Fort Worth and Nagaoka, Japan

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – June 21, 2024 – Fort Worth Sister Cities International is proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Harashin Scholar Program that has fostered cultural exchange between Fort Worth, Texas, and Nagaoka, Japan. Since 1990, the program, funded by the Harashin Company, has provided educational and cultural enrichment opportunities for a total of 240 Fort Worth students and 60 teachers.

The program funds scholarships for eight Fort Worth students and two teachers to travel to Nagaoka each year. While in Japan, students participate in homestay experiences, attend local schools, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture. In return, the families of the Fort Worth program participants host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes, creating a reciprocal exchange that fosters lifelong friendships and understanding.

To commemorate this milestone achievement, FWSCI will be hosting a special celebration on July 25 at Tarrant County College. The event will honor Mr. Kazuhiko Hara, President of the Harashin Company, whose vision and generosity have made this program possible.

“For 30 years, the Harashin scholarship program has provided invaluable opportunities for Fort Worth students and teachers to experience Japanese culture firsthand,” said Chairman of the Board Greg Jackson. “We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Hara for his dedication to building bridges between our two communities.”

2024-06-21 10:46

Sister Cities Celebrates 30 Years of Fostering Cultural Exchange Between Fort Worth and Nagaoka, Japan

Fort Worth, Texas – June 21, 2024 – Fort Worth Sister Cities International is proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Harashin Scholar Program that has fostered cultural exchange between Fort Worth, Texas, and Nagaoka, Japan. Since 1990, the program, funded by the Harashin Company, has provided educational and cultural enrichment opportunities for a total of 240 Fort Worth students and 60 teachers.

The program funds scholarships for eight Fort Worth students and two teachers to travel to Nagaoka each year. While in Japan, students participate in homestay experiences, attend local schools, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture. In return, the families of the Fort Worth program participants host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes, creating a reciprocal exchange that fosters lifelong friendships and understanding.

To commemorate this milestone achievement, FWSCI will be hosting a special celebration on July 25 at Tarrant County College. The event will honor Mr. Kazuhiko Hara, President of the Harashin Company, whose vision and generosity have made this program possible.

“For 30 years, the Harashin scholarship program has provided invaluable opportunities for Fort Worth students and teachers to experience Japanese culture firsthand,” said Chairman of the Board Greg Jackson. “We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Hara for his dedication to building bridges between our two communities.”

Fort Worth Welcomes Delegation from Sister City Guiyang, China

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – June 21, 2024 – The City of Fort Worth is pleased to host an official delegation from Guiyang, China, led by Vice Mayor Lan Liu. The delegation will be in Fort Worth from July 14-18 to strengthen ties between the two sister cities.

The visit will include tours of Fort Worth City Hall, the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, Trinity Valley School, and Tarrant County College. The delegation will also have the opportunity to meet with representatives from major Fort Worth companies, including Danone, Dickies, Cook Children’s Health Care System, and Texas Health Resources.

“We are honored to welcome our friends from Guiyang to Fort Worth,” said Chairman of the Board Greg Jackson. “This visit is a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and build relationships that will benefit both of our cities.”

The Fort Worth-Guiyang sister city relationship was established in 2011. Since then, the two cities have collaborated on a number of initiatives, including educational exchanges, cultural events, and economic development programs.

2024-06-21 10:38

Fort Worth Welcomes Delegation from Sister City Guiyang, China

Fort Worth, Texas – June 21, 2024 – The City of Fort Worth is pleased to host an official delegation from Guiyang, China, led by Vice Mayor Lan Liu. The delegation will be in Fort Worth from July 14-18 to strengthen ties between the two sister cities.

The visit will include tours of Fort Worth City Hall, the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, Trinity Valley School, and Tarrant County College. The delegation will also have the opportunity to meet with representatives from major Fort Worth companies, including Danone, Dickies, Cook Children’s Health Care System, and Texas Health Resources.

“We are honored to welcome our friends from Guiyang to Fort Worth,” said Chairman of the Board Greg Jackson. “This visit is a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and build relationships that will benefit both of our cities.”

The Fort Worth-Guiyang sister city relationship was established in 2011. Since then, the two cities have collaborated on a number of initiatives, including educational exchanges, cultural events, and economic development programs.