Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

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

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

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

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

Find out more about youth exchanges>

Judges from Serbia Examine Rule of Law in Fort Worth

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

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

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

More than 28,000 current and future leaders from post-Soviet era countries have participated in the Open World program. Open World offers one of the most effective U.S. exchange programs to promote mutually beneficial options for depolarized engagement between future national leaders.

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

2022-08-19 10:47

Judges from Serbia Examine Rule of Law in Fort Worth

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

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

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

More than 28,000 current and future leaders from post-Soviet era countries have participated in the Open World program. Open World offers one of the most effective U.S. exchange programs to promote mutually beneficial options for depolarized engagement between future national leaders.

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

Summer Leadership Academies Return to Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX – High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 8. Students from Eswatini and Italy, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 33rd International Leadership Academy. The academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding and problem-solving using diplomacy.

Since 1989, the ILA has brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 50 participants will converge at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Fort Worth July 16 – 31 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance.

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

This year marks the 16th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy held July 10 – 15. College students will serve as facilitators for Fort Worth students who will discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts, gaining international perspectives.

“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 ceremony for ILA will take place July 30, 10 a.m. at the Texas A&M University School of Law and is free and open to the public.

2022-06-22 10:44

Summer Leadership Academies Return to Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX – High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 8. Students from Eswatini and Italy, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 33rd International Leadership Academy. The academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding and problem-solving using diplomacy.

Since 1989, the ILA has brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 50 participants will converge at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Fort Worth July 16 – 31 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance.

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

This year marks the 16th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy held July 10 – 15. College students will serve as facilitators for Fort Worth students who will discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts, gaining international perspectives.

“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 ceremony for ILA will take place July 30, 10 a.m. at the Texas A&M University School of Law and is free and open to the public.

Leaders from the Republic of Georgia Examine Urban Planning in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX — The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of urban planners from the Republic of Georgia to Fort Worth from July 22-30, 2022, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator and an interpreter. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the City of Fort Worth through a team led by Assistant City Manager Fernando Costa.

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 urban planning and preservation with city staff and local leaders in Fort Worth. Additional activities include visits to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Near Southside, Inc, and Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. 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, the Open World program, administered by the Congressional Office for International Leadership, maintains a vast network of more than 28,000 alumni in strategic countries including Russia, Ukraine, and others in the Balkans, Caucuses, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Open World supports legislative diplomacy efforts for Members of Congress by conducting exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between emerging leaders and their U.S. counterparts. Program participants are provided with extensive exposure to American politics, accountable governance, and citizen diplomacy, while being home hosted by American families. To learn more about Open World, please visit www.openworld.gov/.

2022-06-22 10:34

Leaders from the Republic of Georgia Examine Urban Planning in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX — The Congressional Office for International Leadership, an agency of the U.S. Congress, will send a delegation of urban planners from the Republic of Georgia to Fort Worth from July 22-30, 2022, through the Open World program. The delegation consists of five professionals who will be accompanied by a bicultural facilitator and an interpreter. While in Fort Worth, the COIL program participants will be hosted by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the City of Fort Worth through a team led by Assistant City Manager Fernando Costa.

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 urban planning and preservation with city staff and local leaders in Fort Worth. Additional activities include visits to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Near Southside, Inc, and Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. 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, the Open World program, administered by the Congressional Office for International Leadership, 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/.

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Enrichment

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Partners with FWISD

In June, Fort Worth will welcome nine 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 virtually June 3-16 and in person June 20-30 at Burton Hill Elementary School.

This year’s theme is Constructing Biliteracy through the Panther City Project and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in Dual Language programs to increase language and literacy across the content areas. Up to 100 students are expected to attend.

“The history, growth and future of the city of Fort Worth is so deeply connected with the Trinity River. We see wonderful examples of how water and natural ecosystems shape our daily life and are eager for our Dual Language learners to learn through this richness. It will provide students opportunities to engage in hands-on, authentic activities that incorporate math, science, social studies, and literacy in two languages. We are thrilled to welcome our Sister Cities partners from Toluca, Mexico,” said Marisa Silva, Coordinator of Dual Language Programs for the Fort Worth ISD.

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 Plaza and more.

2022-05-25 12:18

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Enrichment

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Partners with FWISD

In June, Fort Worth will welcome nine 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 virtually June 3-16 and in person June 20-30 at Burton Hill Elementary School.

This year’s theme is Constructing Biliteracy through the Panther City Project and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in Dual Language programs to increase language and literacy across the content areas. Up to 100 students are expected to attend.

“The history, growth and future of the city of Fort Worth is so deeply connected with the Trinity River. We see wonderful examples of how water and natural ecosystems shape our daily life and are eager for our Dual Language learners to learn through this richness. It will provide students opportunities to engage in hands-on, authentic activities that incorporate math, science, social studies, and literacy in two languages. We are thrilled to welcome our Sister Cities partners from Toluca, Mexico,” said Marisa Silva, Coordinator of Dual Language Programs for the Fort Worth ISD.

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 Plaza and more.

Fort Worth Welcomes International Students

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

Fort Worth welcomes students from sister cities, Trier, Germany and Nagaoka, Japan, this October for youth ambassador exchanges.

Two educators and 12 students from Trier, Germany will be hosted by Trinity Valley School and Fort Worth Country Day School Oct. 6-20.

Six educators and 30 middle school students from Nagaoka, Japan will participate in a middle school exchange, partnering with Daggett Montessori School, McLean Middle School, and World Languages Institute. Students and teachers will be visiting Oct. 12-20.

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. Activities include visits to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Kimbell Art Museum, Stockyards Station and many other Fort Worth favorites.

“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 Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach our young people the importance of global understanding.”

If you’re interested in getting involved and home hosting, please contact Beth Weibel, at beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Students Attend Local Leadership Academy

Fort Worth, TX: Peace through innovation

This year marks the 15th year of the International Leadership Academy’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) to be held July 8—12 for students completing grades 6-8.  This one-week academy will be held in partnership with the International Newcomer Academy.

College students from Toluca, Mexico 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
  • Enhance college and career opportunities
  • Strengthen global perspectives and appreciation for other cultures
  • Learn about citizen diplomacy

“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 ceremony for JILA will take place at the International Newcomer Academy on July 12 at 5:00 pm and is open to the public. The keynote address will be given by Mayor Betsy Price.

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 27 years, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated benefiting Fort Worth families.

Fort Worth Harashin scholars include DJ Carter, Erik Cura, Cameron Garcia, Lilian Hicks, Will Lourcey, Saleem Razack, Kyra Rhoades, and Bayan Williams; and will be led by Delegation Leaders Andréanne Annis and Angelia Ross.

“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 Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. The students depart July 24 for a week-long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 5-15.

All student applicants (9th-11th grades) 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.

2019-06-26 10:05

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 27 years, it is estimated that over $2 million has been generously donated benefiting Fort Worth families.

Fort Worth Harashin scholars include DJ Carter, Erik Cura, Cameron Garcia, Lilian Hicks, Will Lourcey, Saleem Razack, Kyra Rhoades, and Bayan Williams; and will be led by Delegation Leaders Andréanne Annis and Angelia Ross.

“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 Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. The students depart July 24 for a week-long exchange and the Japanese students will be in Fort Worth August 5-15.

All student applicants (9th-11th grades) 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.

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Enrichment

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Partners with FWISD and Tec de Monterrey de Toluca

Fort Worth will welcome ten university students and two educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education for a Dual Language Immersion Camp for Fort Worth elementary students in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD (FWISD). The Toluca university students will act as international facilitators for the three-week camp June 10-27.

This year’s theme is Architecture of Fort Worth and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in dual language studies to increase language and literacy across the content areas. This year’s camp is already full with over 75 students from FWISD dual language elementary schools.

“We are eager to provide Fort Worth’s architecture as the focus of our Dual Language Immersion Summer Camp,” said Xavier Vásquez Director of the Bilingual/ESL Department at FWISD. “It will provide students with wonderful opportunities to explore the history and design of our buildings while incorporating math, science, social studies and literacy skills in two languages. Excitement abounds as we look forward to working alongside our Sister Cities partners from Toluca, Mexico.”

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 Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Sundance Square Plaza and more. The group will also be volunteering for the Tarrant Area Food Bank and Kids Who Care.

The closing ceremony will take place on June 27 at Morningside  Elementary School.

2019-06-03 10:55

Elementary Students Receiving Dual Language Enrichment

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Partners with FWISD and Tec de Monterrey de Toluca

Fort Worth will welcome ten university students and two educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education for a Dual Language Immersion Camp for Fort Worth elementary students in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD (FWISD). The Toluca university students will act as international facilitators for the three-week camp June 10-27.

This year’s theme is Architecture of Fort Worth and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in dual language studies to increase language and literacy across the content areas. This year’s camp is already full with over 75 students from FWISD dual language elementary schools.

“We are eager to provide Fort Worth’s architecture as the focus of our Dual Language Immersion Summer Camp,” said Xavier Vásquez Director of the Bilingual/ESL Department at FWISD. “It will provide students with wonderful opportunities to explore the history and design of our buildings while incorporating math, science, social studies and literacy skills in two languages. Excitement abounds as we look forward to working alongside our Sister Cities partners from Toluca, Mexico.”

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 Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Sundance Square Plaza and more. The group will also be volunteering for the Tarrant Area Food Bank and Kids Who Care.

The closing ceremony will take place on June 27 at Morningside  Elementary School.

Architectural Program from Mexico Partnering Locally

Fort Worth, TX – Visiting delegation hosted by Sister Cities

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

Architectural engineering students and their professor will be in Fort Worth for a mentorship program April 13-20.

While in Fort Worth, the group will visit several businesses and universities to learn about the variety of potential careers in their chosen field, and to learn about the sciences behind those fields. The students will also learn about various structures throughout Fort Worth, known for their unique architecture.

Students will visit: Bennett Benner Partners, Huitt-Zollars, Tarrant County College, Fort Worth Central Library, Tarrant County Courthouse, Trinity River Vision Authority, Freese and Nichols, Texas and Pacific Station, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

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

In their free time, the group will visit sites such as Sundance Square, the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and AT&T Stadium.

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

If you are interested in home hosting in the future, please contact Beth Weibel with Fort Worth Sister Cities International at beth@fwsistercities.org.

2019-03-25 10:36

Architectural Program from Mexico Partnering Locally

Fort Worth, TX – Visiting delegation hosted by Sister Cities

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

Architectural engineering students and their professor will be in Fort Worth for a mentorship program April 13-20.

While in Fort Worth, the group will visit several businesses and universities to learn about the variety of potential careers in their chosen field, and to learn about the sciences behind those fields. The students will also learn about various structures throughout Fort Worth, known for their unique architecture.

Students will visit: Bennett Benner Partners, Huitt-Zollars, Tarrant County College, Fort Worth Central Library, Tarrant County Courthouse, Trinity River Vision Authority, Freese and Nichols, Texas and Pacific Station, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

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

In their free time, the group will visit sites such as Sundance Square, the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and AT&T Stadium.

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

If you are interested in home hosting in the future, please contact Beth Weibel with Fort Worth Sister Cities International at beth@fwsistercities.org.