Fort Worth Sister Cities offers several opportunities for young people to develop an intimate understanding of a country’s culture and its traditions, and represent their families and their city to the local schools, community centers and the Sister City’s local officials.

Youth Exchanges

Since 1985, Fort Worth Sister Cities International has provided international youth exchanges that help students develop a more global perspective. Find out more >

Fort Worth Youth International

This program provides opportunities for Fort Worth youth (sixth-12th grade) to connect with Fort Worth’s nine Sister Cities, work together to host events for visiting international youth and guests, and develop leadership skills in an educational environment that is fun and relevant to strengthening global awareness. Fort Worth Youth International (FYI) also provides opportunities for Fort Worth youth, promotes local and international community service projects and raises scholarship money for Fort Worth students to participate in official exchanges to our Sister Cities.

Who is eligible?

Students from sixth to 12th grade with:

• Demonstrated leadership skills
• Experience with and desire to participate in community service/volunteerism activities
• Established academic accomplishment
• Ability to express ideas clearly both verbally and in writing
• Interest in international culture

International Leadership Academy

The International Leadership Academy (ILA) for high school students is a dynamic summer leadership programs bringing Fort Worth students together with students from our Sister Cities in China, Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico and eSwatini.

Offered each summer since 1989, ILA is a two-week international issues forum. Students are housed in dorms, where most class activities are conducted. Find out more >

Benefits of Attending:

• Enhance global leadership, communications, teamwork and problem-solving skills
• Learn about cultures, traditions and citizen diplomacy
• Strengthen your global perspective and appreciation for other cultures
• Enhance your college and career opportunities
• Develop lifelong friendships with students from eight countries

Jr. International Leadership Academy

Initiated in 2006, Jr. ILA is open to sixth- through eighth-grade students and focuses on cultural understanding taught by international college students from Mexico who have participated in previous ILA programs. Find out more >

Tricolore Youth Sports Games

The Tricolore Youth Sports Games, held every four years in Fort Worth’s sister city, Reggio Emilia, Italy, began due to admiration for the world Olympic Games and their ability to create peace and unity among people. Find out more >