Category: Student Delegations

36 Japanese Students in Fort Worth for Middle School Program

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Three Local Schools

img_8901The 2016 Ambassador Middle Schools include McLean Middle, Leonard Middle, and Fort Worth Country Day School. These schools are hosting 36 students and teachers from Nagaoka, Japan October 15–23 for this annual international youth exchange program.

Fort Worth Sister Cities established the Ambassador Middle School program in 1991 partnering with local public and private schools to promote global fluency for educators and students.

group-laughingThe goal of the Ambassador Middle School program is to prepare Fort Worth students giving them the leadership skills needed to succeed in today’s connected world. At the same time, educators are given creative teaching tools and exposure to international cultures and educational systems of other countries.

cheerleader“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and local private schools to give Fort Worth students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the board. 

In partnership with the Fort Worth Public Library, the students will volunteer at the east regional location, teaching origami and singing songs with children in the Library’s after school program. Through this unique experience the students will provide a glimpse into life in Japan and its unique culture. 

2nd-group-picThe Japanese students will attend classes, participate in cultural activities and live with Fort Worth families from the participating schools while in Fort Worth gaining an even better understanding of Fort Worth and the U.S.A.

2016-10-18 11:30

36 Japanese Students in Fort Worth for Middle School Program

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Three Local Schools

img_8901The 2016 Ambassador Middle Schools include McLean Middle, Leonard Middle, and Fort Worth Country Day School. These schools are hosting 36 students and teachers from Nagaoka, Japan October 15–23 for this annual international youth exchange program.

Fort Worth Sister Cities established the Ambassador Middle School program in 1991 partnering with local public and private schools to promote global fluency for educators and students.

group-laughingThe goal of the Ambassador Middle School program is to prepare Fort Worth students giving them the leadership skills needed to succeed in today’s connected world. At the same time, educators are given creative teaching tools and exposure to international cultures and educational systems of other countries.

cheerleader“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and local private schools to give Fort Worth students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the board. 

In partnership with the Fort Worth Public Library, the students will volunteer at the east regional location, teaching origami and singing songs with children in the Library’s after school program. Through this unique experience the students will provide a glimpse into life in Japan and its unique culture. 

2nd-group-picThe Japanese students will attend classes, participate in cultural activities and live with Fort Worth families from the participating schools while in Fort Worth gaining an even better understanding of Fort Worth and the U.S.A.

Fort Worth To Celebrate 5th Anniversary With Chinese Partner

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Mayor Pro Tem Espino leading group to China  

Guiyang, ChinaFort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Sal Espino will lead a delegation of twenty Fort Worth Ambassadors to Guiyang, China June 11-19 to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the partnership as sister cities.

07 - Baby Miao, a Chinese ethnic minority...she is a global thinker alreadyThe exchange will consist of three nights in Guiyang, visiting local sites of interest as well as an official commemoration of the establishment of the partnership at city hall and a celebration banquet following. The exchange will also include a visit to Beijing to see the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square, and a tour of the Forbidden City as well as a visit to Shanghai. 

“Fort Worth is eager to recommit to this important relationship with Guiyang and looks forward to many more beneficial exchanges between our two cities.  Together, Fort Worth and Guiyang, hope to create a better understanding of our individual cultures. There are many similarities and many differences we will be able to share,” said Mayor Pro Tem Espino.

grp photo_nice scenaryThe group will also include Youth Ambassadors who will be home hosted while in Guiyang. Fort Worth and Guiyang have developed a strong reciprocal youth program with students visiting each other’s cities annually. Fort Worth will be hosting fifteen Chinese students at its International Leadership Academy in July.

Guiyang is Fort Worth’s eighth sister city and the 124th U.S. city to form a partnership in China.

2016-05-24 10:57

Fort Worth To Celebrate 5th Anniversary With Chinese Partner

Fort Worth, Texas – Mayor Pro Tem Espino leading group to China  

Guiyang, ChinaFort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Sal Espino will lead a delegation of twenty Fort Worth Ambassadors to Guiyang, China June 11-19 to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the partnership as sister cities.

07 - Baby Miao, a Chinese ethnic minority...she is a global thinker alreadyThe exchange will consist of three nights in Guiyang, visiting local sites of interest as well as an official commemoration of the establishment of the partnership at city hall and a celebration banquet following. The exchange will also include a visit to Beijing to see the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square, and a tour of the Forbidden City as well as a visit to Shanghai. 

“Fort Worth is eager to recommit to this important relationship with Guiyang and looks forward to many more beneficial exchanges between our two cities.  Together, Fort Worth and Guiyang, hope to create a better understanding of our individual cultures. There are many similarities and many differences we will be able to share,” said Mayor Pro Tem Espino.

grp photo_nice scenaryThe group will also include Youth Ambassadors who will be home hosted while in Guiyang. Fort Worth and Guiyang have developed a strong reciprocal youth program with students visiting each other’s cities annually. Fort Worth will be hosting fifteen Chinese students at its International Leadership Academy in July.

Guiyang is Fort Worth’s eighth sister city and the 124th U.S. city to form a partnership in China.

Sister Cities Accepting Applications for Jr. Leadership Academy

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX: Building a Culture of Health, Theme of Academy

IMG_9537This year marks the 12th year of the International Leadership Academy’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held July 11—15 for middle school students .  This one week Academy will be held at South Hi Mount Elementary School in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD.

faciltator kingCollege students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland will serve as facilitators for the students who will experience cultural presentations and interaction with the university students gaining an international perspective.

As participants, students will be able to:
  • Enhance global leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills
  • Learn about cultures, traditions, and citizen diplomacy of eight countries
  • Strengthen global perspectives and appreciation for other cultures
  • Enhance college and career opportunities
  • Develop lifelong friendships with students from eight countries without leaving Fort Worth

students making funny faces“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 and prepares these students for a global society,” said Nancy Marchant, JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremonies for JILA will take place July 15, 5:00 p.m. at South Hi Mount Elementary School and is open to the public.

Applications are due April 22 and can be downloaded here: https://www.fwsistercities.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2016-JILA-Registration-fillable.pdf?e7c817

2016-04-18 12:49

Sister Cities Accepting Applications for Jr. Leadership Academy

Fort Worth, TX: Building a Culture of Health, Theme of Academy

IMG_9537This year marks the 12th year of the International Leadership Academy’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held July 11—15 for middle school students .  This one week Academy will be held at South Hi Mount Elementary School in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD.

faciltator kingCollege students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland will serve as facilitators for the students who will experience cultural presentations and interaction with the university students gaining an international perspective.

As participants, students will be able to:
  • Enhance global leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills
  • Learn about cultures, traditions, and citizen diplomacy of eight countries
  • Strengthen global perspectives and appreciation for other cultures
  • Enhance college and career opportunities
  • Develop lifelong friendships with students from eight countries without leaving Fort Worth

students making funny faces“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 and prepares these students for a global society,” said Nancy Marchant, JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremonies for JILA will take place July 15, 5:00 p.m. at South Hi Mount Elementary School and is open to the public.

Applications are due April 22 and can be downloaded here: https://www.fwsistercities.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2016-JILA-Registration-fillable.pdf?e7c817

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas – Goodwill Ambassadors travel to four Sister Cities 

YA in FlorenceLater this month, thirty-two students and ten leaders are visiting four of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities including Trier, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Toluca, Mexico.

This will be the first youth exchange to Toluca, Mexico since 2008.  Educators from the FWISD, private schools and local universities will lead the delegations including:

Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School and Travis Waggoner, recent University of North Texas graduate.

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Vicki Delgado, Leonard Middle School and Rachel Jenkins, University of Texas at Arlington, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Kiana Cunningham, University of Arkansas.

Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS and Michelle Chuah, University of Texas at Arlington.

teotihuacanToluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School and Stephanie Atkinson, University of Texas at Arlington.

 “In today’s ever-expanding global marketplace, cultural enlightenment and exposure is crucial for students and adults alike. We believe in a student-centered program that encourages the development of leadership skills and motivates students to pursue their own goals,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education.  They learn leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills, as well as an understanding of other cultures. They also receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S., Texas and Fort Worth which enhances their college and career opportunities.

2016-02-25 11:39

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

Fort Worth, Texas – Goodwill Ambassadors travel to four Sister Cities 

YA in FlorenceLater this month, thirty-two students and ten leaders are visiting four of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities including Trier, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Toluca, Mexico.

This will be the first youth exchange to Toluca, Mexico since 2008.  Educators from the FWISD, private schools and local universities will lead the delegations including:

Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School and Travis Waggoner, recent University of North Texas graduate.

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Vicki Delgado, Leonard Middle School and Rachel Jenkins, University of Texas at Arlington, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Kiana Cunningham, University of Arkansas.

Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS and Michelle Chuah, University of Texas at Arlington.

teotihuacanToluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School and Stephanie Atkinson, University of Texas at Arlington.

 “In today’s ever-expanding global marketplace, cultural enlightenment and exposure is crucial for students and adults alike. We believe in a student-centered program that encourages the development of leadership skills and motivates students to pursue their own goals,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education.  They learn leadership, communications, teamwork, and problem solving skills, as well as an understanding of other cultures. They also receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S., Texas and Fort Worth which enhances their college and career opportunities.

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2016

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
FORT WORTH, TX – Students selected to visit Fort Worth’s Sister Cities

grp photo_nice scenaryNearly 100 Fort Worth students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Ambassadors to Fort Worth’s international partners.

Youth Ambassador exchanges provide a global education for students giving them the opportunity to explore history and experience languages, culture and arts of the country they visit. Students live with host families to develop an understanding of the culture and its traditions during exchanges that range from 9 to 14 days.

YA in FlorenceThe selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad. This year’s Ambassadors represent students from FWISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and several private schools. Scholarship assistance of over $100,000 are awarded annually ensuring a diverse group of students and teachers who will represent Fort Worth.

On exchanges students develop relationships with students from other countries and gain essential skills to be successful in a global society. “Selection of Youth Ambassadors is a very competitive process and we feel we have an outstanding class to represent Fort Worth and the U.S. A. this year,” said Dr. Staussa Ervin, Chair of the Exchanges and Outreach committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

The exchanges are scheduled for March, June and July to China, Italy, Hungary, Germany, Japan, and Mexico.  A complete list of Youth Ambassadors can be found at https://www.fwsistercities.org/fort-worth-youth-ambassadors-2016/

2016-01-07 08:55

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2016

FORT WORTH, TX – Students selected to visit Fort Worth’s Sister Cities

grp photo_nice scenaryNearly 100 Fort Worth students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Ambassadors to Fort Worth’s international partners.

Youth Ambassador exchanges provide a global education for students giving them the opportunity to explore history and experience languages, culture and arts of the country they visit. Students live with host families to develop an understanding of the culture and its traditions during exchanges that range from 9 to 14 days.

YA in FlorenceThe selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad. This year’s Ambassadors represent students from FWISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and several private schools. Scholarship assistance of over $100,000 are awarded annually ensuring a diverse group of students and teachers who will represent Fort Worth.

On exchanges students develop relationships with students from other countries and gain essential skills to be successful in a global society. “Selection of Youth Ambassadors is a very competitive process and we feel we have an outstanding class to represent Fort Worth and the U.S. A. this year,” said Dr. Staussa Ervin, Chair of the Exchanges and Outreach committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

The exchanges are scheduled for March, June and July to China, Italy, Hungary, Germany, Japan, and Mexico.  A complete list of Youth Ambassadors can be found at https://www.fwsistercities.org/fort-worth-youth-ambassadors-2016/

Ambassador Educators to Represent Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities selects leaders for international youth exchangesDLs at crater

Twelve delegation leaders from area schools and organizations were recently selected to lead youth exchanges to five of Fort Worth’s sister cities next year.  Nearly 100 local students will be interviewed for approx. 80 slots on the exchanges starting Nov. 2, 2015.

Ambassador Educators selected to represent Fort Worth abroad are:

Spring exchanges March 12-20, 2016
  • Reggio Emilia, Italy: Sandy Yeandle, Daggett Montessori & Vicki Delgado, Leonard MS
  • Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest HS & Beth Weibel, Sr. Program Manager, Fort Worth Sister Cities
  • Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS & Ana Castenada, South Hills High School
  • Toluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School & Rachel Jenkins, UTA
Summer exchanges June 10-August 4, 2016
  • Guiyang, China, June 10-19:  Tracey Cravens, Northside HS & Cindy Vasquez, City of FW
  • Nagaoka, Japan, June 22-July 1: Kathy Roemer, Fort Worth Country Day & Maria Saucedo, World Languages Institute
  • Nagaoka, Japan: July 27-August 4: Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill Jarvis High School & James Gleaton, Paschal High School

“International exchanges give students possibly their first opportunity to travel abroad, which is almost always described as a life-changing experience. Without these amazing teachers and professionals to lead the students through sometimes difficult and unfamiliar circumstances, this would not be possible,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Local educators benefit greatly from travel abroad programs.  They have the opportunity to develop their craft by being exposed to different people and cultures, gain leadership skills by mentoring students outside the classroom, network with international educators, and travel to rich and interesting cultures.

2015-10-28 11:32

Ambassador Educators to Represent Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities selects leaders for international youth exchangesDLs at crater

Twelve delegation leaders from area schools and organizations were recently selected to lead youth exchanges to five of Fort Worth’s sister cities next year.  Nearly 100 local students will be interviewed for approx. 80 slots on the exchanges starting Nov. 2, 2015.

Ambassador Educators selected to represent Fort Worth abroad are:

Spring exchanges March 12-20, 2016
  • Reggio Emilia, Italy: Sandy Yeandle, Daggett Montessori & Vicki Delgado, Leonard MS
  • Trier, Germany: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest HS & Beth Weibel, Sr. Program Manager, Fort Worth Sister Cities
  • Budapest, Hungary: Jay Kurima, FWISD TABS & Ana Castenada, South Hills High School
  • Toluca, Mexico: Nathan Henderson, Stripling Middle School & Rachel Jenkins, UTA
Summer exchanges June 10-August 4, 2016
  • Guiyang, China, June 10-19:  Tracey Cravens, Northside HS & Cindy Vasquez, City of FW
  • Nagaoka, Japan, June 22-July 1: Kathy Roemer, Fort Worth Country Day & Maria Saucedo, World Languages Institute
  • Nagaoka, Japan: July 27-August 4: Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill Jarvis High School & James Gleaton, Paschal High School

“International exchanges give students possibly their first opportunity to travel abroad, which is almost always described as a life-changing experience. Without these amazing teachers and professionals to lead the students through sometimes difficult and unfamiliar circumstances, this would not be possible,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Local educators benefit greatly from travel abroad programs.  They have the opportunity to develop their craft by being exposed to different people and cultures, gain leadership skills by mentoring students outside the classroom, network with international educators, and travel to rich and interesting cultures.

Fort Worth Youth Ambassadors Visit Japan

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX –  Sister Cities provides unique opportunity for Fort Worth youth.

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 exchange. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes for a reciprocal exchange.

This program and all the scholarships have been funded by the Hara family and Harashin Co. Ltd. of Nagaoka. For nearly 26 years of this program, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated.

Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities International and this unique opportunity for Fort Worth students is no exception. The students depart July 26 for a week long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 7 -15.

Exchanges with each of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities provide youth the opportunity to spend 9-15 days with an international host family and experience their history, culture and customs. This is done as citizen diplomats and gives students a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

All student applicants (grades 9-12) 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.

Harashin scholars include: Rose Bailey, Bob Chao, Samuel DeRobertis, Zoe DeRobertis, Alyssa McClean, Nate Wallace, and Ameera Zaman, accompanied by Tara Forrest and Roselyne Tembiwa, delegation leaders.

Home hosting make these programs possible.  Become a home host to an international student for an amazing experience!

2015-07-28 11:09

Fort Worth Youth Ambassadors Visit Japan

Fort Worth, TX –  Sister Cities provides unique opportunity for Fort Worth youth.

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 exchange. In return, the families of these Fort Worth students host students and teachers from Nagaoka in their homes for a reciprocal exchange.

This program and all the scholarships have been funded by the Hara family and Harashin Co. Ltd. of Nagaoka. For nearly 26 years of this program, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated.

Exchange programs are a key element in the overall programs of Fort Worth Sister Cities International and this unique opportunity for Fort Worth students is no exception. The students depart July 26 for a week long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 7 -15.

Exchanges with each of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities provide youth the opportunity to spend 9-15 days with an international host family and experience their history, culture and customs. This is done as citizen diplomats and gives students a better understanding of other cultures providing them an international education only these programs can offer.

All student applicants (grades 9-12) 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.

Harashin scholars include: Rose Bailey, Bob Chao, Samuel DeRobertis, Zoe DeRobertis, Alyssa McClean, Nate Wallace, and Ameera Zaman, accompanied by Tara Forrest and Roselyne Tembiwa, delegation leaders.

Home hosting make these programs possible.  Become a home host to an international student for an amazing experience!

Fort Worth Sole USA Representative at Italian Sports Games

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities fielding youth sports teams.

In its ongoing efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and provide opportunities to enhance the understanding and awareness of different cultures on a global basis, Fort Worth Sister Cities International will be sending nearly 100 student athletes, coaches, and staff to the Giochi Tricolore Sports Games in Reggio Emilia, Italy August 24-31, 2015.

The games create a chance for young people to convey a positive impression of American youth to other people from around the world participating in the event.

“By not only visiting a foreign country, but living with and competing against nearly 5,000 young athletes from around the world, our Sports Ambassadors will undoubtedly learn that they have much more in common with the other participants than what separates them,” Fort Worth Sister Cities Chairman Michael Bennett said. “These are the types of experiences that help these young people shape their understanding and acceptance of people from other cultures.”

The Youth Ambassadors and coaches representing Fort Worth will compete and live in an Olympic-style village with student athletes from other countries as well as represent Fort Worth and the U.S.A. through positive sportsmanship and goodwill.

“The programs sponsored by Sister Cities have such a broad appeal by offering international experiences you can’t get as casual tourists,” said Fort Worth Sister Cities Sports Games Chair Pam Lea. “The student athletes will remember this trip for the rest of their lives.”

The Sports Games are held every four years in Reggio Emilia, Italy with Fort Worth being the only city in the U.S. invited to participate. Teams participating are girls basketball, girls volleyball, girls and boys swimming, and two boys baseball teams.

Become a Youth Ambassador

2015-07-28 11:08

Fort Worth Sole USA Representative at Italian Sports Games

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities fielding youth sports teams.

In its ongoing efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and provide opportunities to enhance the understanding and awareness of different cultures on a global basis, Fort Worth Sister Cities International will be sending nearly 100 student athletes, coaches, and staff to the Giochi Tricolore Sports Games in Reggio Emilia, Italy August 24-31, 2015.

The games create a chance for young people to convey a positive impression of American youth to other people from around the world participating in the event.

“By not only visiting a foreign country, but living with and competing against nearly 5,000 young athletes from around the world, our Sports Ambassadors will undoubtedly learn that they have much more in common with the other participants than what separates them,” Fort Worth Sister Cities Chairman Michael Bennett said. “These are the types of experiences that help these young people shape their understanding and acceptance of people from other cultures.”

The Youth Ambassadors and coaches representing Fort Worth will compete and live in an Olympic-style village with student athletes from other countries as well as represent Fort Worth and the U.S.A. through positive sportsmanship and goodwill.

“The programs sponsored by Sister Cities have such a broad appeal by offering international experiences you can’t get as casual tourists,” said Fort Worth Sister Cities Sports Games Chair Pam Lea. “The student athletes will remember this trip for the rest of their lives.”

The Sports Games are held every four years in Reggio Emilia, Italy with Fort Worth being the only city in the U.S. invited to participate. Teams participating are girls basketball, girls volleyball, girls and boys swimming, and two boys baseball teams.

Become a Youth Ambassador

Sister Cities Students Attend Leadership Academies

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX: E3 – Energy, Environment and Education, Theme of Academies ILA Flash Mob 2014

Since 1989, the award-winning International Leadership Academy (ILA) has brought young people from Fort Worth’s sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, over 170 participants will converge at TCU July 18 – Aug. 2 to share their cultures and learn more about leadership.

Students from Fort Worth, Italy, Germany, Japan, China, Mexico, Swaziland, Indonesia, and for the first time students from Vietnam, will be in Fort Worth for this two week program. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through team-building, problem-solving, and sharing cultures.

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 and a community service project.

This year marks the 11th year of ILA’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held July 13—17. College students from Toluca, Mexico will serve as facilitators as the Fort Worth students discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts. The students will experience cultural presentations and interaction with high school students from Toluca, Mexico gaining an international perspective.

“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 Nancy Marchant, ILA and JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremonies for ILA take place on Aug. 1, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s Ed Landreth Auditorium and are open to the public.

2015-06-24 04:20

Sister Cities Students Attend Leadership Academies

Fort Worth, TX: E3 – Energy, Environment and Education, Theme of Academies ILA Flash Mob 2014

Since 1989, the award-winning International Leadership Academy (ILA) has brought young people from Fort Worth’s sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, over 170 participants will converge at TCU July 18 – Aug. 2 to share their cultures and learn more about leadership.

Students from Fort Worth, Italy, Germany, Japan, China, Mexico, Swaziland, Indonesia, and for the first time students from Vietnam, will be in Fort Worth for this two week program. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through team-building, problem-solving, and sharing cultures.

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 and a community service project.

This year marks the 11th year of ILA’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held July 13—17. College students from Toluca, Mexico will serve as facilitators as the Fort Worth students discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts. The students will experience cultural presentations and interaction with high school students from Toluca, Mexico gaining an international perspective.

“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 Nancy Marchant, ILA and JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremonies for ILA take place on Aug. 1, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s Ed Landreth Auditorium and are open to the public.

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Indonesia and Japan

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Goodwill Ambassadors travel to two Sister Cities In June, 27 students and leaders are visiting two of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities including Bandung, Indonesia and Nagaoka, Japan.

This will be the first youth exchange to Bandung, Indonesia since 2000. Jay Kurima, FWISD ed

ucator, will lead the delegation to Bandung including seven high school students, one university student, and two additional adult leaders. They will also be visiting Yogyakarta.

The fifteen students and leaders to Nagaoka will be led by Glen Mears and Cindy Vasquez.

“In today’s ever-expanding global marketplace, cultural enlightenment and exposure is crucial for students and adults alike. We believe in a student-centered program that encourages the development of leadership skills and motivates students to pursue their own goals,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education. They learn leadership, communications, teamwork and problem solving skills, as well as an understanding of other cultures. They receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S. which enhances their college and career opportunities.

2015-05-15 11:43

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Indonesia and Japan

Fort Worth, Texas – Goodwill Ambassadors travel to two Sister Cities In June, 27 students and leaders are visiting two of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities including Bandung, Indonesia and Nagaoka, Japan.

This will be the first youth exchange to Bandung, Indonesia since 2000. Jay Kurima, FWISD ed

ucator, will lead the delegation to Bandung including seven high school students, one university student, and two additional adult leaders. They will also be visiting Yogyakarta.

The fifteen students and leaders to Nagaoka will be led by Glen Mears and Cindy Vasquez.

“In today’s ever-expanding global marketplace, cultural enlightenment and exposure is crucial for students and adults alike. We believe in a student-centered program that encourages the development of leadership skills and motivates students to pursue their own goals,” said Michael Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education. They learn leadership, communications, teamwork and problem solving skills, as well as an understanding of other cultures. They receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S. which enhances their college and career opportunities.