Category: Student Delegations

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
 

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.

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.

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2025

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2025! 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 Oforitsenere Bodunrin who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for her excellence in community service and leadership. Oforitsenere will be using the scholarship to travel to Reggio Emilia, Italy in the spring.

Budapest, Hungary

  • Daniel Barreto, World Languages Institute
  • Charles Cady, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kaylee Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Daisy Daniels, Western Hills High School
  • Abi Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Rose Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Angel Garcia, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Mason Rawlins, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Dani Rubio, LD Bell High School
  • Samantha Saade, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Maycena Stedman, LD Bell High School
  • Maddox Wolfe, Fort Worth Country Day
Delegation Leaders
  • Chelsy Beninate, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Araceli Garcia, Charles Nash Elementary

Guiyang, China

  • Nara Acuna Guba, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Mariana Gonzalez, World Languages Institute
  • Mahan Gopalan, Fort Worth Academy
  • Aiden Gutierrez, All Saints Episcopal School
  • Dorothea Hart, Booker T. Washington High School
  • Harmon Hong, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Sean Hong, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Mason Lawrence, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Tristan Lawrence, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Kennedy Laster, Braswell High School
  • Adrian Marioni, World Languages Institute
  • Julianna Wood, World Languages Institute
Delegation Leaders
  • Krista Forsgren, Windows On Asia Consulting
  • Rubi Roy, Fort Worth Sister Cities International Alumna
Associate Delegation Leaders
  • Antti Havia, University of Denver
  • Bryn Kane, University of Houston

Nagaoka, Japan

  • Edythe Cline, Trinity Valley School
  • Mackenzie Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Raegan Florsheim, Trinity Valley School
  • Ana Garcia, IDEA Edgecliff
  • Dejonae Hanson, Southwest High School
  • Chloe Lee, TCC South Collegiate
  • James Lopez, Fort Worth Academy
  • Findley Maxwell, World Languages Institute
  • Bella Ortega, Harmony School of Innovation
  • Emily Resendiz, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Cecilia Rico, Stripling Middle School
  • Paxton Trinh, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Kellen Wright, All Saints Episcopal School
Delegation Leaders
  • Hillary Relyea, Trinity Valley School
  • Emily Bordman, Stripling Middle School

Nagaoka, Japan – Harashin

  • Kaylee Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Aadith Gowda, Coppell High School
  • Aiden Loughran, Colleyville Heritage High School
  • Ashton Melven, World Languages Institute
  • Evelyn Rodriguez, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Bowie Royal, Aledo High School
  • Savannah Solsbery, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Chloe Swinford, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Alternate: Nate Hackworth, Trinity Valley School
  • Alternate: Riley Ledesma, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM & VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Patricia Anderson, Diamond Hill Jarvis High School
  • Chloe Marshall, Clifford Davis Elementary

Nimes, France

  • Brenna Belauskas, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Elizabeth Endres, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Aadith Gowda, Coppell High School
  • Nate Hackworth, Trinity Valley School
  • Sophia Mora, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Michael Phillips, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM & VPA
  • Immanuel Rodriguez, North Side High School
  • Chloe Soule, Southwest High School
  • Ella Taylor, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Tran, Nolan Catholic High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Hao Tran, Trimble Tech High School
  • Cindy Vasquez, UNT Health Science Center

Reggio Emilia, Italy

  • Ramon Barajas, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Oforitsenere Bodunrin, Tarrant County College
  • Lillian Doze, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Siam Freeman, Arlington Heights High School
  • Albert Gamero, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Diego Lomas, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Jessica Lorenzana, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Maxwelle McPhaull, I.M. Terrell Academy of STEM & VPA
  • Audrey Middleton, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Hassan Piaubert, Game Design & Development Schools
  • Michael Rodriguez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Sofia Rubio, World Languages Institute
  • Gene Starr, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Lorelei Wadsworth, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Zoe Williams, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Faith Wormley, Arlington Heights High School
Delegations Leaders
  • Dr. Michael Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • Kathy Roemer, Greenhill School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Ella Wells, University of Texas

Trier, Germany – Sport Camp

  • Emmanuel Dawkins, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Elizabeth Nytko, Tarrant County College
  • Grady Roth, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Austin Trinh, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Henry Vitek, R.L. Paschal High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Dawnelle Butler, Eagle-Mountain Saginaw ISD
  • Jerome Butler, Gameday Productions
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Matthew O’Brien, University of Texas

Mbabane, Eswatini (2026)

  • Oforitsenere Bodunrin, Tarrant County College
  • Charles Cady, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Mackenzie Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Maxwelle McPhaull, I.M. Terrell Academy of STEM & VPA
  • Hassan Piaubert, Game Design and Development Schools
  • Michael Phillips, I.M. Terrell Academy of STEM & VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Courtney Upp, Stuard Elementary
  • Brandy Sapp, IDEA Public Schools
  • Paige Collins, Fort Worth Sister Cities International
 

2024-11-20 05:13

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2025

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2025! 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 Oforitsenere Bodunrin who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for her excellence in community service and leadership. Oforitsenere will be using the scholarship to travel to Reggio Emilia, Italy in the spring.

Budapest, Hungary

  • Daniel Barreto, World Languages Institute
  • Charles Cady, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kaylee Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Daisy Daniels, Western Hills High School
  • Abi Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Rose Flores, World Languages Institute
  • Angel Garcia, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Mason Rawlins, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Dani Rubio, LD Bell High School
  • Samantha Saade, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Maycena Stedman, LD Bell High School
  • Maddox Wolfe, Fort Worth Country Day
Delegation Leaders
  • Chelsy Beninate, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Araceli Garcia, Charles Nash Elementary

Guiyang, China

  • Nara Acuna Guba, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Mariana Gonzalez, World Languages Institute
  • Mahan Gopalan, Fort Worth Academy
  • Aiden Gutierrez, All Saints Episcopal School
  • Dorothea Hart, Booker T. Washington High School
  • Harmon Hong, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Sean Hong, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Mason Lawrence, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Tristan Lawrence, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Kennedy Laster, Braswell High School
  • Adrian Marioni, World Languages Institute
  • Julianna Wood, World Languages Institute
Delegation Leaders
  • Krista Forsgren, Windows On Asia Consulting
  • Rubi Roy, Fort Worth Sister Cities International Alumna
Associate Delegation Leaders
  • Antti Havia, University of Denver
  • Bryn Kane, University of Houston

Nagaoka, Japan

  • Edythe Cline, Trinity Valley School
  • Mackenzie Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Raegan Florsheim, Trinity Valley School
  • Ana Garcia, IDEA Edgecliff
  • Dejonae Hanson, Southwest High School
  • Chloe Lee, TCC South Collegiate
  • James Lopez, Fort Worth Academy
  • Findley Maxwell, World Languages Institute
  • Bella Ortega, Harmony School of Innovation
  • Emily Resendiz, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Cecilia Rico, Stripling Middle School
  • Paxton Trinh, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Kellen Wright, All Saints Episcopal School
Delegation Leaders
  • Hillary Relyea, Trinity Valley School
  • Emily Bordman, Stripling Middle School

Nagaoka, Japan – Harashin

  • Kaylee Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Aadith Gowda, Coppell High School
  • Aiden Loughran, Colleyville Heritage High School
  • Ashton Melven, World Languages Institute
  • Evelyn Rodriguez, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Bowie Royal, Aledo High School
  • Savannah Solsbery, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Chloe Swinford, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Alternate: Nate Hackworth, Trinity Valley School
  • Alternate: Riley Ledesma, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM & VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Patricia Anderson, Diamond Hill Jarvis High School
  • Chloe Marshall, Clifford Davis Elementary

Nimes, France

  • Brenna Belauskas, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Elizabeth Endres, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Aadith Gowda, Coppell High School
  • Nate Hackworth, Trinity Valley School
  • Sophia Mora, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Michael Phillips, I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM & VPA
  • Immanuel Rodriguez, North Side High School
  • Chloe Soule, Southwest High School
  • Ella Taylor, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Tran, Nolan Catholic High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Hao Tran, Trimble Tech High School
  • Cindy Vasquez, UNT Health Science Center

Reggio Emilia, Italy

  • Ramon Barajas, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Oforitsenere Bodunrin, Tarrant County College
  • Lillian Doze, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Siam Freeman, Arlington Heights High School
  • Albert Gamero, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Diego Lomas, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Jessica Lorenzana, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Maxwelle McPhaull, I.M. Terrell Academy of STEM & VPA
  • Audrey Middleton, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Hassan Piaubert, Game Design & Development Schools
  • Michael Rodriguez, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Sofia Rubio, World Languages Institute
  • Gene Starr, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Lorelei Wadsworth, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Zoe Williams, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Faith Wormley, Arlington Heights High School
Delegations Leaders
  • Dr. Michael Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • Kathy Roemer, Greenhill School
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Ella Wells, University of Texas

Trier, Germany – Sport Camp

  • Emmanuel Dawkins, Amon Carter Riverside High School
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Elizabeth Nytko, Tarrant County College
  • Grady Roth, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Austin Trinh, Southlake Carroll High School
  • Henry Vitek, R.L. Paschal High School
Delegation Leaders
  • Dawnelle Butler, Eagle-Mountain Saginaw ISD
  • Jerome Butler, Gameday Productions
Associate Delegation Leader
  • Matthew O’Brien, University of Texas

Mbabane, Eswatini (2026)

  • Oforitsenere Bodunrin, Tarrant County College
  • Charles Cady, Fort Worth Country Day School
  • Mackenzie Crain, Trinity Valley School
  • Walker Maxwell, R.L. Paschal High School
  • Maxwelle McPhaull, I.M. Terrell Academy of STEM & VPA
  • Hassan Piaubert, Game Design and Development Schools
  • Michael Phillips, I.M. Terrell Academy of STEM & VPA
Delegation Leaders
  • Courtney Upp, Stuard Elementary
  • Brandy Sapp, IDEA Public Schools
  • Paige Collins, Fort Worth Sister Cities International
 

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.”

Young Artists & Authors Chosen to Represent Fort Worth in International Showcase

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

For decades, Sister Cities International has leveraged the power that art has to transform societies and transcend cultural boundaries through the Young Artists and Authors Showcase, or YAAS. The Showcase has given youth worldwide the opportunity to express their vision for a more unified, peaceful world through original art and literature.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International held the local showcase to choose student pieces to be submitted to the worldwide competition interpreting the theme “ClimateScape: Resilient Cities for Tomorrow’s Climate.” All artists will be recognized along with their original pieces at a special reception on May 21. Find out more>

We want to give a special thanks to our judges Hilde Horchler, Rachel Malone, Ron Crouch, Bronwyn Logan, Estrus Tucker, Leo Wesson, and Britt Stokes.

Congratulations to all the artists and authors who were selected and entered into the international competition.

Artists (classic)

Artists (digital)

Photographers

Authors

Poets

2024-04-22 11:51

Young Artists & Authors Chosen to Represent Fort Worth in International Showcase

For decades, Sister Cities International has leveraged the power that art has to transform societies and transcend cultural boundaries through the Young Artists and Authors Showcase, or YAAS. The Showcase has given youth worldwide the opportunity to express their vision for a more unified, peaceful world through original art and literature.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International held the local showcase to choose student pieces to be submitted to the worldwide competition interpreting the theme “ClimateScape: Resilient Cities for Tomorrow’s Climate.” All artists will be recognized along with their original pieces at a special reception on May 21. Find out more>

We want to give a special thanks to our judges Hilde Horchler, Rachel Malone, Ron Crouch, Bronwyn Logan, Estrus Tucker, Leo Wesson, and Britt Stokes.

Congratulations to all the artists and authors who were selected and entered into the international competition.

Artists (classic)

Artists (digital)

Photographers

Authors

Poets

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students from Nimes

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France, this week for the second annual youth ambassador exchange to Fort Worth.

Two teachers and 14 students from Nîmes will be hosted by the World Languages Institute, Fort Worth Country Day School, and Nolan Catholic High School Feb. 25 – March 3. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America. The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth.

“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.”

A special farewell dinner for the students will be held at the World Languages Institute on March 2 with special performances by the French and Fort Worth students.

2024-02-26 12:01

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students from Nimes

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France, this week for the second annual youth ambassador exchange to Fort Worth.

Two teachers and 14 students from Nîmes will be hosted by the World Languages Institute, Fort Worth Country Day School, and Nolan Catholic High School Feb. 25 – March 3. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America. The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth.

“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.”

A special farewell dinner for the students will be held at the World Languages Institute on March 2 with special performances by the French and Fort Worth students.

Student Ambassadors to Visit France, Hungary, and Italy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth students and leaders depart next month for Nimes, France; Budapest, Hungary; and Reggio Emilia, Italy. Delegations are led by educators from the FWISD, private schools, and universities.

In February, 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.

For a full list of students visiting our sister cities, click here.

2024-02-26 10:21

Student Ambassadors to Visit France, Hungary, and Italy

Fort Worth students and leaders depart next month for Nimes, France; Budapest, Hungary; and Reggio Emilia, Italy. Delegations are led by educators from the FWISD, private schools, and universities.

In February, 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.

For a full list of students visiting our sister cities, click here.

Team USA Brings Home Gold, Silver and Bronze

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

In its ongoing efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and provide opportunities to enhance understanding and awareness of different cultures on a global basis, Fort Worth Sister Cities International sent nearly 100 student athletes, coaches and staff to the Tricolore Games in Reggio Emilia, Italy July 22-30.

The Athlete Ambassadors and coaches representing Fort Worth have been competing and living in an Olympic-style village with nearly 1,000 other student athletes from around the world, representing Fort Worth and the U.S.A. through positive sportsmanship and goodwill.

The student athletes returned over the weekend and are bringing home gold, silver, and bronze medals.

“We are so proud to be representing Fort Worth and the USA,” said Fort Worth Sister Cities President/CEO Mae Ferguson. “The student athletes have exhibited great sportsmanship and learned the true meaning of citizen diplomacy.”

The games are held every four years in Reggio Emilia, Italy with Fort Worth being the only city in the U.S.A. invited to participate.

2023-07-28 09:07

Team USA Brings Home Gold, Silver and Bronze

In its ongoing efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and provide opportunities to enhance understanding and awareness of different cultures on a global basis, Fort Worth Sister Cities International sent nearly 100 student athletes, coaches and staff to the Tricolore Games in Reggio Emilia, Italy July 22-30.

The Athlete Ambassadors and coaches representing Fort Worth have been competing and living in an Olympic-style village with nearly 1,000 other student athletes from around the world, representing Fort Worth and the U.S.A. through positive sportsmanship and goodwill.

The student athletes returned over the weekend and are bringing home gold, silver, and bronze medals.

“We are so proud to be representing Fort Worth and the USA,” said Fort Worth Sister Cities President/CEO Mae Ferguson. “The student athletes have exhibited great sportsmanship and learned the true meaning of citizen diplomacy.”

The games are held every four years in Reggio Emilia, Italy with Fort Worth being the only city in the U.S.A. invited to participate.

Scholarship Recipients Represent Fort Worth in Japan

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities provides unique opportunity for students

Since 1990, The Harashin Co. of Nagaoka, Japan has funded scholarships for eight Fort Worth students and two teachers to travel there for an educational and cultural enrichment experience. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes.

This program and all the scholarships have been funded by the Hara family and Harashin Co. Ltd. of Nagaoka. For 33 years, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated benefiting Fort Worth families.

Fort Worth Harashin scholars include Laila Abu Tobeh, Julieta Almanza, Anjali Ferguson, Dorothea Hart, Alexandra Rodriguez, Jonathan Pulido, and Ian Valderas; and will be led by Delegation Leaders Kimberly Kowalski and Dimanche Brewer.

“Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities and this unique opportunity for students is no exception,” said Greg Jackson, Chairman of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. The students depart July 26 for a 10-day exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth Aug. 8-17.

All student applicants (grades 9-11) participate in a vigorous selection process including teacher recommendations, essays and personal interviews. The Harashin Scholars are required to attend monthly cultural orientations to further enrich their international experience and prepare them for the exchange.

Exchanges with each of Fort Worth’s nine sister cities provide youth the opportunity to spend time with an international host family and experience their history, culture and customs. These students become citizen diplomats through this program. It gives them a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

Find our more about youth exchanges>

2023-06-13 04:45

Scholarship Recipients Represent Fort Worth in Japan

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities provides unique opportunity for students

Since 1990, The Harashin Co. of Nagaoka, Japan has funded scholarships for eight Fort Worth students and two teachers to travel there for an educational and cultural enrichment experience. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes.

This program and all the scholarships have been funded by the Hara family and Harashin Co. Ltd. of Nagaoka. For 33 years, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated benefiting Fort Worth families.

Fort Worth Harashin scholars include Laila Abu Tobeh, Julieta Almanza, Anjali Ferguson, Dorothea Hart, Alexandra Rodriguez, Jonathan Pulido, and Ian Valderas; and will be led by Delegation Leaders Kimberly Kowalski and Dimanche Brewer.

“Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities and this unique opportunity for students is no exception,” said Greg Jackson, Chairman of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. The students depart July 26 for a 10-day exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth Aug. 8-17.

All student applicants (grades 9-11) participate in a vigorous selection process including teacher recommendations, essays and personal interviews. The Harashin Scholars are required to attend monthly cultural orientations to further enrich their international experience and prepare them for the exchange.

Exchanges with each of Fort Worth’s nine sister cities provide youth the opportunity to spend time with an international host family and experience their history, culture and customs. These students become citizen diplomats through this program. It gives them a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

Find our more about youth exchanges>