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BECAUSE THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION IS UNDERSTANDING

Get connected to a powerful local resource for international relations, global education and cultural competency. Whether you’re traveling to sister cities or participating in community programs, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of different cultures that can help foster a more peaceful, prosperous world. Learn more.

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MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE

Our global education programs are designed to support lifelong learning and cultural competence. We’re not just making people smarter. We’re making the world better.

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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.”

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Enrichment

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 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 10 – July 2 at South Hi Mount Elementary School.

This year’s camp 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.

2024-05-13 11:17

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Enrichment

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 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 10 – July 2 at South Hi Mount Elementary School.

This year’s camp 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.

Sister Cities Youth Board Elected for 2024-25 School Year

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

On May 5, the Fort Worth Youth International board elected officers for the 2024-25 school year. Stay tuned to hear about their innovative plans to engage youth in the Fort Worth community.

A celebration was held to thank the outgoing board for their many accomplishments during the year. Led by President Delia Sanchez Juarez, the board hosted a Global Extravaganza kickoff event, volunteered at the Mid-Autumn Festival, Mayor’s International International Dinner, Lunar New Year Celebration, and Japanese Children’s Day, and organized a service project for World Relief.

Thank you to our outgoing board and congratulations to the new board!

2024-25 Officers

  • President: Nara Acuña Guba – Fort Worth Country Day
  • Vice President of Programs: Gigi Helling – Fort Worth Country Day
  • Secretary: Sean Hong – Fort Worth Country Day
  • Public Relations Officer: Denise Smith – Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Community Outreach/Membership: Myiesha Sharma – Flower Mound High School
  • Fundraising Officer: Valeria Venegas – Paschal High School
  • Cultural Orientations Officer: Emma Chorn – Young Women’s Leadership Academy
At Large Members:
  • Lauren Fulmer – Coram Deo Academy
  • Aiden Gutierez – All Saints Episcopal School
  • Michael Rodriguez – Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Celeste Jenkins-O’Reilly – Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Isabella Rodriguez – All Saints Episcopal School
  • Kaylee Crain – Trinity Valley School
  • Micah Przymus – World Languages Institute
  • Adrian Marioni – World Languages Institute
  • Erin Miller – All Saints Episcopal School
  • Adriana Frederickson – World Languages Institute
  • Zach McKee – Paschal High School
  • Snow Collins – Northwest High School
  • Jade Cook – I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
  • Brenna Belaskaus – Nolan Catholic High School
  • Alizabeth Alaniz – Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Haley Cundiff – Western Hills High School
  • Daisy Daniels – Western Hills High School
  • Brady Carvino – Wedgwood Academy
  • Yaretzi Navarro – Western Hills High School
  • Adrian Marioni – World Languages Institute
  • Eliza Stubblefield – I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA

2024-05-08 04:04

Sister Cities Youth Board Elected for 2024-25 School Year

On May 5, the Fort Worth Youth International board elected officers for the 2024-25 school year. Stay tuned to hear about their innovative plans to engage youth in the Fort Worth community.

A celebration was held to thank the outgoing board for their many accomplishments during the year. Led by President Delia Sanchez Juarez, the board hosted a Global Extravaganza kickoff event, volunteered at the Mid-Autumn Festival, Mayor’s International International Dinner, Lunar New Year Celebration, and Japanese Children’s Day, and organized a service project for World Relief.

Thank you to our outgoing board and congratulations to the new board!

2024-25 Officers

  • President: Nara Acuña Guba – Fort Worth Country Day
  • Vice President of Programs: Gigi Helling – Fort Worth Country Day
  • Secretary: Sean Hong – Fort Worth Country Day
  • Public Relations Officer: Denise Smith – Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Community Outreach/Membership: Myiesha Sharma – Flower Mound High School
  • Fundraising Officer: Valeria Venegas – Paschal High School
  • Cultural Orientations Officer: Emma Chorn – Young Women’s Leadership Academy
At Large Members:
  • Lauren Fulmer – Coram Deo Academy
  • Aiden Gutierez – All Saints Episcopal School
  • Michael Rodriguez – Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Celeste Jenkins-O’Reilly – Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
  • Isabella Rodriguez – All Saints Episcopal School
  • Kaylee Crain – Trinity Valley School
  • Micah Przymus – World Languages Institute
  • Adrian Marioni – World Languages Institute
  • Erin Miller – All Saints Episcopal School
  • Adriana Frederickson – World Languages Institute
  • Zach McKee – Paschal High School
  • Snow Collins – Northwest High School
  • Jade Cook – I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
  • Brenna Belaskaus – Nolan Catholic High School
  • Alizabeth Alaniz – Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Haley Cundiff – Western Hills High School
  • Daisy Daniels – Western Hills High School
  • Brady Carvino – Wedgwood Academy
  • Yaretzi Navarro – Western Hills High School
  • Adrian Marioni – World Languages Institute
  • Eliza Stubblefield – I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA

Mae Ferguson to Retire After 25 Years

Posted on by Courtney Garvey

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – 

Fort Worth Sister Cities International announces the upcoming retirement of Mae Ferguson, the organization’s dedicated President & CEO, who will be retiring at the end of this year after 25 years of outstanding service.

Mae Ferguson joined the organization in 2000 and has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission of promoting global understanding and citizen diplomacy through the organization’s nine sister city partnerships. Under Mae’s visionary leadership, Fort Worth Sister Cities International has flourished; expanding its membership to over 500 dedicated supporters, increasing its budget fivefold, establishing the Connect Globally Endowment for future sustainability, and achieving the distinction of being awarded the Best Sister City Program in the nation more times than any other city in the United States.

“Mae Ferguson and Fort Worth Sister Cities International are synonymous,” said Greg Jackson, Chairman of the Board. “Mae is a pillar in our community: our entire city is grateful for her remarkable service that has positioned the organization as Fort Worth’s global leader in international relationships.”

Mae has served on the Sister Cities International Board of Directors, including as Chairman of the Board from 2006 to 2008. She has also represented Texas as the state’s representative for Sister Cities International since 2011 representing nearly 40 Texas cities helping them strengthen and expand new international partnerships. Mae’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Chairman’s Award from Sister Cities International in 2008 and 2018, and the prestigious Ruth Hashimoto Award in 2023. She was also recognized with the Great Women of Texas award by the Fort Worth Business Press in 2006 and 2018.

“Fort Worth Sister Cities International works to connect our world-class city to the world, and for the last 25 years, that important role has been led by the vision and hard work of Mae Ferguson,” said Fort Worth Mayor, Mattie Parker. “The world, and Fort Worth, has changed a lot in the last two and a half decades, and Mae has been a steadfast leader in Fort Worth’s role in international relationships and global civic engagement through all of it.”

The Board of Directors will begin a search for a new CEO to succeed Mae Ferguson and lead Fort Worth Sister Cities International into its next chapter.

2024-05-07 09:52

Mae Ferguson to Retire After 25 Years

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – 

Fort Worth Sister Cities International announces the upcoming retirement of Mae Ferguson, the organization’s dedicated President & CEO, who will be retiring at the end of this year after 25 years of outstanding service.

Mae Ferguson joined the organization in 2000 and has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission of promoting global understanding and citizen diplomacy through the organization’s nine sister city partnerships. Under Mae’s visionary leadership, Fort Worth Sister Cities International has flourished; expanding its membership to over 500 dedicated supporters, increasing its budget fivefold, establishing the Connect Globally Endowment for future sustainability, and achieving the distinction of being awarded the Best Sister City Program in the nation more times than any other city in the United States.

“Mae Ferguson and Fort Worth Sister Cities International are synonymous,” said Greg Jackson, Chairman of the Board. “Mae is a pillar in our community: our entire city is grateful for her remarkable service that has positioned the organization as Fort Worth’s global leader in international relationships.”

Mae has served on the Sister Cities International Board of Directors, including as Chairman of the Board from 2006 to 2008. She has also represented Texas as the state’s representative for Sister Cities International since 2011 representing nearly 40 Texas cities helping them strengthen and expand new international partnerships. Mae’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Chairman’s Award from Sister Cities International in 2008 and 2018, and the prestigious Ruth Hashimoto Award in 2023. She was also recognized with the Great Women of Texas award by the Fort Worth Business Press in 2006 and 2018.

“Fort Worth Sister Cities International works to connect our world-class city to the world, and for the last 25 years, that important role has been led by the vision and hard work of Mae Ferguson,” said Fort Worth Mayor, Mattie Parker. “The world, and Fort Worth, has changed a lot in the last two and a half decades, and Mae has been a steadfast leader in Fort Worth’s role in international relationships and global civic engagement through all of it.”

The Board of Directors will begin a search for a new CEO to succeed Mae Ferguson and lead Fort Worth Sister Cities International into its next chapter.

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

Sister Cities Hiring Controller

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Job type: full-time

Location: in-person

Salary range: $60,000-$75,000

We are looking for a team-oriented individual who will be responsible for ensuring proper management of the organization’s resources through proper accounting activities and policies.

Duties

  • Perform accounting/bookkeeping duties on a daily basis to include:
    • accounts receivable
    • accounts payable
    • financial reports
    • bank, credit card and investment account reconciliations
    • budgeting
    • advising management
    • payroll
  • Manage human resources and benefit management function to include:
    • overseeing new hire processes
    • coordinating changes
    • overseeing human resources policies
    • maintaining employee records.
  • Other activities:
    • Liaison with other team members to ensure all revenue and expenses are properly recorded.
    • Manage financial audit and tax preparation information requests and schedules from external auditors and tax advisors.
    • Oversee the organization’s system of internal controls to safeguard assets; train staff as needed.
    • Stay abreast of emerging trends in accounting, finance risk management, procurement, and technology to improve the organization’s effectiveness in accomplishing its mission.
Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field required; CPA a plus.
  • Requires 3 years of experience in accounting; nonprofit accounting preferred.
  • Thorough knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles required.
  • Understanding of and compliance with internal control policies required.
  • Experience with Quickbooks Online required and proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.
  • Basic working knowledge of a donor database program such as DonorPerfect preferred.
  • Good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required.
  • Must be a hands-on Controller with integrity and a desire to work in a mission driven environment.
  • Ability to learn and quickly adapt to changes in programs and procedures required.
  • Visual and mental concentration is necessary for working at computer for extended periods.
We offer a competitive salary package with benefits including medical, dental, HSA and Simple IRA matching. If you meet the qualifications listed above and are looking for a challenging new opportunity, please apply today by sending a resume and cover letter to amy@fwsistercities.org.

2024-03-04 02:43

Sister Cities Hiring Controller

Job type: full-time

Location: in-person

Salary range: $60,000-$75,000

We are looking for a team-oriented individual who will be responsible for ensuring proper management of the organization’s resources through proper accounting activities and policies.

Duties

  • Perform accounting/bookkeeping duties on a daily basis to include:
    • accounts receivable
    • accounts payable
    • financial reports
    • bank, credit card and investment account reconciliations
    • budgeting
    • advising management
    • payroll
  • Manage human resources and benefit management function to include:
    • overseeing new hire processes
    • coordinating changes
    • overseeing human resources policies
    • maintaining employee records.
  • Other activities:
    • Liaison with other team members to ensure all revenue and expenses are properly recorded.
    • Manage financial audit and tax preparation information requests and schedules from external auditors and tax advisors.
    • Oversee the organization’s system of internal controls to safeguard assets; train staff as needed.
    • Stay abreast of emerging trends in accounting, finance risk management, procurement, and technology to improve the organization’s effectiveness in accomplishing its mission.
Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field required; CPA a plus.
  • Requires 3 years of experience in accounting; nonprofit accounting preferred.
  • Thorough knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles required.
  • Understanding of and compliance with internal control policies required.
  • Experience with Quickbooks Online required and proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.
  • Basic working knowledge of a donor database program such as DonorPerfect preferred.
  • Good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required.
  • Must be a hands-on Controller with integrity and a desire to work in a mission driven environment.
  • Ability to learn and quickly adapt to changes in programs and procedures required.
  • Visual and mental concentration is necessary for working at computer for extended periods.
We offer a competitive salary package with benefits including medical, dental, HSA and Simple IRA matching. If you meet the qualifications listed above and are looking for a challenging new opportunity, please apply today by sending a resume and cover letter to amy@fwsistercities.org.

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.

Emerging Leaders from Estonia Examine Municipal Leadership and Community Engagement 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 Estonia to Fort Worth from Jan. 26 – Feb. 3, 2024, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the City of Fort Worth.

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

In Fort Worth, delegates will collaborate on best practices for municipal leadership and community engagement from local leaders in Fort Worth. Activities, organized by Assistant City Manager Fernando Costa, include visits with city officials, the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Near Southside, Inc., Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., Camp Bowie District, Inc., T3 Partnership, 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/.

2024-01-19 12:34

Emerging Leaders from Estonia Examine Municipal Leadership and Community Engagement 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 Estonia to Fort Worth from Jan. 26 – Feb. 3, 2024, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the City of Fort Worth.

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

In Fort Worth, delegates will collaborate on best practices for municipal leadership and community engagement from local leaders in Fort Worth. Activities, organized by Assistant City Manager Fernando Costa, include visits with city officials, the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Near Southside, Inc., Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., Camp Bowie District, Inc., T3 Partnership, 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/.

International Leadership Academy Reimagined as Global Leaders in Action

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Since 1989, the International Leadership Academy brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. Participants lived on the TCU campus and shared a room with students from another country while attending classes designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems.

This summer, Fort Sister Cities will launch the pilot program of Global Leaders in Action July 11-21, 2024. This program will again bring international students to Fort Worth and encourage students to explore how they see other cultures and understand global influences while using leadership skills to promote world peace through service to their communities. Participants will collaborate with one another to design and implement leadership and cultural training for students in the Fort Worth community.

Global Leaders in Action is led by a team of highly qualified and experienced educators who, along with several international partners, have developed a very interactive program. Educators and local university students will facilitate group learning experiences as the students design and implement their own leadership and cultural competency trainings for younger students at Fort Worth community centers and non-profits.

2023-12-20 12:50

International Leadership Academy Reimagined as Global Leaders in Action

Since 1989, the International Leadership Academy brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. Participants lived on the TCU campus and shared a room with students from another country while attending classes designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems.

This summer, Fort Sister Cities will launch the pilot program of Global Leaders in Action July 11-21, 2024. This program will again bring international students to Fort Worth and encourage students to explore how they see other cultures and understand global influences while using leadership skills to promote world peace through service to their communities. Participants will collaborate with one another to design and implement leadership and cultural training for students in the Fort Worth community.

Global Leaders in Action is led by a team of highly qualified and experienced educators who, along with several international partners, have developed a very interactive program. Educators and local university students will facilitate group learning experiences as the students design and implement their own leadership and cultural competency trainings for younger students at Fort Worth community centers and non-profits.