Category: Sister City Visitors

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.

Fort Worth Welcomes Young Swimmers from Reggio Emilia, Italy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas (June 21, 2024) – Get ready for a splash of international competition and cultural exchange! A delegation of talented young swimmers from Reggio Emilia, Italy, is set to visit Fort Worth this summer. Hosted by the renowned Sigma Swimming club, these athletes will participate in a week-long program that combines friendly competition in the pool with exciting cultural experiences.

The program, taking place July 19-26, will see the Italian swimmers participate in joint training sessions with their Sigma counterparts. This will provide a unique opportunity for athletes from both sides of the Atlantic to learn from each other’s techniques, share best practices, and forge lasting friendships.

Beyond the pool, the program is designed to foster cultural understanding. The Italian delegation will be treated to a taste of Fort Worth’s vibrant culture, with visits to local museums, historical landmarks, and iconic attractions. This will allow them to experience the city’s unique blend of Western heritage, artistic spirit, and modern charm.

The program culminates in a friendly swim meet, where both teams will showcase their skills and sportsmanship. This exciting event will be open to the public, offering Fort Worth residents the chance to cheer on both the local Sigma swimmers and their international guests.

“We are thrilled to welcome these talented young athletes from Reggio Emilia,” said Coralee Flug, North Region Manager at Sigma Swimming. “This program is a fantastic opportunity to promote cultural exchange and build bridges between our communities, all while fostering a love for the sport of swimming.”

2024-06-21 10:26

Fort Worth Welcomes Young Swimmers from Reggio Emilia, Italy

Fort Worth, Texas (June 21, 2024) – Get ready for a splash of international competition and cultural exchange! A delegation of talented young swimmers from Reggio Emilia, Italy, is set to visit Fort Worth this summer. Hosted by the renowned Sigma Swimming club, these athletes will participate in a week-long program that combines friendly competition in the pool with exciting cultural experiences.

The program, taking place July 19-26, will see the Italian swimmers participate in joint training sessions with their Sigma counterparts. This will provide a unique opportunity for athletes from both sides of the Atlantic to learn from each other’s techniques, share best practices, and forge lasting friendships.

Beyond the pool, the program is designed to foster cultural understanding. The Italian delegation will be treated to a taste of Fort Worth’s vibrant culture, with visits to local museums, historical landmarks, and iconic attractions. This will allow them to experience the city’s unique blend of Western heritage, artistic spirit, and modern charm.

The program culminates in a friendly swim meet, where both teams will showcase their skills and sportsmanship. This exciting event will be open to the public, offering Fort Worth residents the chance to cheer on both the local Sigma swimmers and their international guests.

“We are thrilled to welcome these talented young athletes from Reggio Emilia,” said Coralee Flug, North Region Manager at Sigma Swimming. “This program is a fantastic opportunity to promote cultural exchange and build bridges between our communities, all while fostering a love for the sport of swimming.”

Official delegations from Mexico and Italy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – Visiting delegations hosted by Sister Cities

Fort Worth Sister Cities International hosted two delegations in November from Fort Worth’s sister cities Toluca, Mexico and Reggio Emilia, Italy.

While in Fort Worth, the groups visited with Fort Worth City Council members and Mayor Parker, as well as, several businesses and cultural sites to learn about Fort Worth and how to engage our cities in mutually beneficial endeavors.

Led by State Congresswoman Monica Gaytan, the Toluca delegation toured the Cultural District and Stockyards, attended the Mayor’s International Dinner in celebration of 25 years of partnership between Fort Worth and Toluca, and participated in the Dia de los Muertos Parade organized by Artes de la Rosa.

“We were thrilled to welcome our guests and show them what Fort Worth has to offer, as well as to celebrate 25 years of friendship which is something to be valued and is more important today than ever before,” said Wilma Lopez, Toluca Chair.

Led by Mayor Luca Vecchi, the Reggio Emilia delegation engaged in several special interest meetings and tours with Mrs. Renfro’s, Dickies Arena, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, and Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.

“This visit to Fort Worth is just the beginning of continued growth. The business counterpart meetings created value and experience to think and grow connections internationally,” said Reggio Emilia Chair Sian Borne.

These exchanges would not be possible without the support of volunteers from our city committees. A huge thank you to the members of our Toluca Committee and Reggio Emilia Committee for welcoming our visitors with open arms.

Interested in volunteering for a committee? Email beth@fwsistercities.org.

2023-11-27 10:23

Official delegations from Mexico and Italy

Fort Worth, Texas – Visiting delegations hosted by Sister Cities

Fort Worth Sister Cities International hosted two delegations in November from Fort Worth’s sister cities Toluca, Mexico and Reggio Emilia, Italy.

While in Fort Worth, the groups visited with Fort Worth City Council members and Mayor Parker, as well as, several businesses and cultural sites to learn about Fort Worth and how to engage our cities in mutually beneficial endeavors.

Led by State Congresswoman Monica Gaytan, the Toluca delegation toured the Cultural District and Stockyards, attended the Mayor’s International Dinner in celebration of 25 years of partnership between Fort Worth and Toluca, and participated in the Dia de los Muertos Parade organized by Artes de la Rosa.

“We were thrilled to welcome our guests and show them what Fort Worth has to offer, as well as to celebrate 25 years of friendship which is something to be valued and is more important today than ever before,” said Wilma Lopez, Toluca Chair.

Led by Mayor Luca Vecchi, the Reggio Emilia delegation engaged in several special interest meetings and tours with Mrs. Renfro’s, Dickies Arena, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, and Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.

“This visit to Fort Worth is just the beginning of continued growth. The business counterpart meetings created value and experience to think and grow connections internationally,” said Reggio Emilia Chair Sian Borne.

These exchanges would not be possible without the support of volunteers from our city committees. A huge thank you to the members of our Toluca Committee and Reggio Emilia Committee for welcoming our visitors with open arms.

Interested in volunteering for a committee? Email beth@fwsistercities.org.

International Students Attend Leadership Academy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX: Peace Builders, Theme of Academy

High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 8. Students from Eswatini, Italy, and Japan, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 34th International Leadership Academy. The academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding and problem-solving using diplomacy.

Since 1989, ILA has brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 50 participants will converge at Texas Christian University July 8 – 23 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance.

“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth,” said Nelcy Cardenas, ILA Coordinator.

Participants will live on the TCU campus and share a room with students from another country. They will attend classes that are designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems. Activities will also include visits to area businesses, museums, and other cultural venues specific to Fort Worth, as well as a community service project.

2023-06-13 04:12

International Students Attend Leadership Academy

Fort Worth, TX: Peace Builders, Theme of Academy

High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 8. Students from Eswatini, Italy, and Japan, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 34th International Leadership Academy. The academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding and problem-solving using diplomacy.

Since 1989, ILA has brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 50 participants will converge at Texas Christian University July 8 – 23 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance.

“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth,” said Nelcy Cardenas, ILA Coordinator.

Participants will live on the TCU campus and share a room with students from another country. They will attend classes that are designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems. Activities will also include visits to area businesses, museums, and other cultural venues specific to Fort Worth, as well as a community service project.

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Immersion

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Partners with FWISD

In June, Fort Worth will welcome eight 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 Fort Worth elementary students in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD. The Toluca university students will act as international facilitators for the three-week camp June 12-29 at Burton Hill Elementary School.

This year’s theme is “Our World: Present, Past & Future” and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in dual language studies to increase language and literacy across the content areas. Nearly 100 students are expected to attend.

The Toluca facilitators and educators are being 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, as well.

While here the group will also explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality. Visits include the Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, Sundance Square and more.

The closing showcase for Dual Language Camp will be held at Burton Hill Elementary School on June 29 at 10:30 a.m. and is open to the public.

2023-05-11 12:07

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Immersion

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Partners with FWISD

In June, Fort Worth will welcome eight 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 Fort Worth elementary students in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD. The Toluca university students will act as international facilitators for the three-week camp June 12-29 at Burton Hill Elementary School.

This year’s theme is “Our World: Present, Past & Future” and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in dual language studies to increase language and literacy across the content areas. Nearly 100 students are expected to attend.

The Toluca facilitators and educators are being 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, as well.

While here the group will also explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality. Visits include the Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, Sundance Square and more.

The closing showcase for Dual Language Camp will be held at Burton Hill Elementary School on June 29 at 10:30 a.m. and is open to the public.

Architectural Program from Mexico Partnering Locally

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – Visiting delegation hosted by Sister Cities

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will host a delegation of architecture students from the prestigious campus of Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education in Fort Worth’s sister city of Toluca, Mexico.

Architectural engineering students and their professor will be in Fort Worth for a mentorship program May 30-June 7.

While in Fort Worth, the group will visit several businesses and universities to learn about the variety of potential careers in their chosen field, and to learn about the sciences behind those fields. The students will also learn about various structures throughout Fort Worth, known for their unique architecture. Students will visit: Huitt-Zollars, Mrs. Renfro’s, Sundance Square, Tarrant County College, Fort Worth Central Library, Tarrant County Courthouse, Trinity River Vision Authority, Texas and Pacific Station, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Multatech.

“Educational and professional exchanges are integral to the strength of Fort Worth’s global partnerships. These kinds of exchanges enhance local companies’ reach into global markets while at the same time creating stronger ties with our neighbors to the south,” said Toluca Chair Teresa Ayala.

In their free time, the group will visit sites such as the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Stockyards Station and AT&T Stadium.

To show the group our Texas hospitality, they will be home hosted.

2023-05-11 11:59

Architectural Program from Mexico Partnering Locally

Fort Worth, Texas – Visiting delegation hosted by Sister Cities

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will host a delegation of architecture students from the prestigious campus of Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education in Fort Worth’s sister city of Toluca, Mexico.

Architectural engineering students and their professor will be in Fort Worth for a mentorship program May 30-June 7.

While in Fort Worth, the group will visit several businesses and universities to learn about the variety of potential careers in their chosen field, and to learn about the sciences behind those fields. The students will also learn about various structures throughout Fort Worth, known for their unique architecture. Students will visit: Huitt-Zollars, Mrs. Renfro’s, Sundance Square, Tarrant County College, Fort Worth Central Library, Tarrant County Courthouse, Trinity River Vision Authority, Texas and Pacific Station, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Multatech.

“Educational and professional exchanges are integral to the strength of Fort Worth’s global partnerships. These kinds of exchanges enhance local companies’ reach into global markets while at the same time creating stronger ties with our neighbors to the south,” said Toluca Chair Teresa Ayala.

In their free time, the group will visit sites such as the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Stockyards Station and AT&T Stadium.

To show the group our Texas hospitality, they will be home hosted.

Young Professionals From Kazakhstan Examine Response To Domestic Violence In Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX — The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of young professionals from Kazakhstan to Fort Worth from April 7-15, 2023, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator and an interpreter. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

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 law enforcement and social services response to domestic violence from local leaders in Fort Worth. Activities include visits to One Safe Place, the Fort Worth Police Department, Alliance for Children, the District Attorney’s Office, SafeHaven of Tarrant County and more. The delegation will stay in the homes of Fort Worth residents who serve as hospitality hosts.

More than 28,000 current and future leaders from post-Soviet era countries 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.

Founded in 1999 by Congress, COIL maintains a vast network of more than 28,000 alumni in strategic countries including Russia, Ukraine, and others in the Balkans, Caucuses, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Open World supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between emerging leaders and their U.S. counterparts. Program participants are provided with extensive exposure to American politics, accountable governance, and citizen diplomacy, while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about Open World, please visit www.openworld.gov/.

2023-03-27 04:44

Young Professionals From Kazakhstan Examine Response To Domestic Violence In Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX — The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of young professionals from Kazakhstan to Fort Worth from April 7-15, 2023, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator and an interpreter. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

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 law enforcement and social services response to domestic violence from local leaders in Fort Worth. Activities include visits to One Safe Place, the Fort Worth Police Department, Alliance for Children, the District Attorney’s Office, SafeHaven of Tarrant County and more. The delegation will stay in the homes of Fort Worth residents who serve as hospitality hosts.

More than 28,000 current and future leaders from post-Soviet era countries 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.

Founded in 1999 by Congress, COIL maintains a vast network of more than 28,000 alumni in strategic countries including Russia, Ukraine, and others in the Balkans, Caucuses, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Open World supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between emerging leaders and their U.S. counterparts. Program participants are provided with extensive exposure to American politics, accountable governance, and citizen diplomacy, while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about Open World, please visit www.openworld.gov/.

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France.

Two teachers and 20 students from Nîmes (pronounced NEEM) will be hosted by the World Languages Institute, Fort Worth Country Day School, and Nolan Catholic High School Feb. 10-19. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and private schools to give students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Greg Jackson, Chairman of the Board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach young people the importance of global understanding and respect of other cultures whether here in Fort Worth or abroad.”

The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth including a visit to the Stockyards, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and a special opportunity to attend a Dallas Mavericks games and meet French player Frank Ntilikina.

Find out more about youth exchanges>

2023-01-23 04:00

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France.

Two teachers and 20 students from Nîmes (pronounced NEEM) will be hosted by the World Languages Institute, Fort Worth Country Day School, and Nolan Catholic High School Feb. 10-19. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and private schools to give students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Greg Jackson, Chairman of the Board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach young people the importance of global understanding and respect of other cultures whether here in Fort Worth or abroad.”

The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth including a visit to the Stockyards, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and a special opportunity to attend a Dallas Mavericks games and meet French player Frank Ntilikina.

Find out more about youth exchanges>

Judges from Serbia Examine Rule of Law in Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX — The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of judges from Serbia to Fort Worth from Sept. 9-17, 2022, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator and an interpreter. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

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 rule of law and criminal proceedings with local leaders in Fort Worth including Judge Mark Pittman, Judge Jeff Cureton, Judge Robb Catalano, and Chief Justice Bonnie Sudderth. Activities include visits to the U.S. District Court, Criminal District Court No. 3, the Second Court of Appeals, the District Attorney’s office, and the Texas A&M University School of Law. The delegation will stay in the homes of Fort Worth residents who serve as hospitality hosts.

More than 28,000 current and future leaders from post-Soviet era countries 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.

Founded in 1999 by Congress, COIL maintains a vast network of more than 28,000 alumni in strategic countries including Russia, Ukraine, and others in the Balkans, Caucuses, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Open World supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between emerging leaders and their U.S. counterparts. Program participants are provided with extensive exposure to American politics, accountable governance, and citizen diplomacy, while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about Open World, please visit www.openworld.gov/.

2022-08-19 10:47

Judges from Serbia Examine Rule of Law in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX — The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of judges from Serbia to Fort Worth from Sept. 9-17, 2022, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator and an interpreter. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

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 rule of law and criminal proceedings with local leaders in Fort Worth including Judge Mark Pittman, Judge Jeff Cureton, Judge Robb Catalano, and Chief Justice Bonnie Sudderth. Activities include visits to the U.S. District Court, Criminal District Court No. 3, the Second Court of Appeals, the District Attorney’s office, and the Texas A&M University School of Law. The delegation will stay in the homes of Fort Worth residents who serve as hospitality hosts.

More than 28,000 current and future leaders from post-Soviet era countries 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.

Founded in 1999 by Congress, COIL maintains a vast network of more than 28,000 alumni in strategic countries including Russia, Ukraine, and others in the Balkans, Caucuses, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Open World supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between emerging leaders and their U.S. counterparts. Program participants are provided with extensive exposure to American politics, accountable governance, and citizen diplomacy, while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about Open World, please visit www.openworld.gov/.