International Students Attend Leadership Academies

Fort Worth, TX: The Art of Diplomacy, Theme of Academies

High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 10.  Students from Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Swaziland, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 28th International Leadership Academy. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through team-building and problem-solving using the art of diplomacy.

Since 1989, the International Leadership Academy (ILA) has brought young people from Fort Worth’s 8 sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 75 participants will converge at Texas Christian University (TCU) July 15 – 30 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance in today’s world.

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, as well as a community service project.

This year marks the 13th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA), held July 10—14. College students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland 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 takes place July 29, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s BLUU Ballroom and is free and open to the public. For more info call 817/632-7100.

2017-07-07 10:51

International Students Attend Leadership Academies

Fort Worth, TX: The Art of Diplomacy, Theme of Academies

High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 10.  Students from Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Swaziland, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 28th International Leadership Academy. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through team-building and problem-solving using the art of diplomacy.

Since 1989, the International Leadership Academy (ILA) has brought young people from Fort Worth’s 8 sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 75 participants will converge at Texas Christian University (TCU) July 15 – 30 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance in today’s world.

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, as well as a community service project.

This year marks the 13th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA), held July 10—14. College students from Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland 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 takes place July 29, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s BLUU Ballroom and is free and open to the public. For more info call 817/632-7100.

Expert to Discuss U.S.-Japan Security Alliance

FORT WORTH, TX – Sister Cities and Fort Worth Chamber team up on global security discussion

Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce invite you to join Ret. Colonel Grant Newsham, senior research fellow at the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies, for a talk on the crucial U.S.-Japan security alliance and the challenges the new administration may face in the region.  Time will also be given for discussion surrounding this issue following Newsham’s presentation.

Newsham will address the changing relationship with Japan militarily in the western pacific region and its impact, as well as what the U.S. can do moving forward with its international partners.

“Mr. Newsham’s talk is particularly relevant, given President Trump’s recent meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and their reaffirmation of mutual commitment towards political, military, and economic support for each other,” said Dr. Michael Roemer, Director of Global Initiatives at Trinity Valley School and the Nagaoka, Japan Chair for Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Newsham’s research focuses on Asia/Pacific defense and political and economic matters. He was the first U.S. Marine Liaison Officer to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. He previously served at Marine Forces Pacific Headquarters in Honolulu and has served twice as the U.S. Marine Attaché, U.S. Embassy Tokyo.

“Fort Worth is fortunate to have a guest of Colonel Newsham’s caliber to inform the community about current U.S./Japan relations,” said Melonye Whitson, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President of Economic Development. “Educating Fort Worth residents and businesses about the value of multi-cultural relationships prepares them for a global world economy.”

The luncheon will be held February 28 in the Fort Worth Camelia Room. Tickets can be purchased until February 24 at https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-japan-security-alliance/ or by calling the Sister Cities’ office at 817/632-7100.

2017-02-22 03:43

Expert to Discuss U.S.-Japan Security Alliance

FORT WORTH, TX – Sister Cities and Fort Worth Chamber team up on global security discussion

Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce invite you to join Ret. Colonel Grant Newsham, senior research fellow at the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies, for a talk on the crucial U.S.-Japan security alliance and the challenges the new administration may face in the region.  Time will also be given for discussion surrounding this issue following Newsham’s presentation.

Newsham will address the changing relationship with Japan militarily in the western pacific region and its impact, as well as what the U.S. can do moving forward with its international partners.

“Mr. Newsham’s talk is particularly relevant, given President Trump’s recent meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and their reaffirmation of mutual commitment towards political, military, and economic support for each other,” said Dr. Michael Roemer, Director of Global Initiatives at Trinity Valley School and the Nagaoka, Japan Chair for Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Newsham’s research focuses on Asia/Pacific defense and political and economic matters. He was the first U.S. Marine Liaison Officer to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. He previously served at Marine Forces Pacific Headquarters in Honolulu and has served twice as the U.S. Marine Attaché, U.S. Embassy Tokyo.

“Fort Worth is fortunate to have a guest of Colonel Newsham’s caliber to inform the community about current U.S./Japan relations,” said Melonye Whitson, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President of Economic Development. “Educating Fort Worth residents and businesses about the value of multi-cultural relationships prepares them for a global world economy.”

The luncheon will be held February 28 in the Fort Worth Camelia Room. Tickets can be purchased until February 24 at https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-japan-security-alliance/ or by calling the Sister Cities’ office at 817/632-7100.

Fort Worth to Celebrate 30th Anniversary With German Partner

Fort Worth, Texas – City Manager David Cooke and Sister Cities Chair Johnny Campbell leading group to Germany 

portanigraapsis1Fort Worth City Manager David Cooke and Fort Worth Sister Cities International Chair Johnny Campbell of Sundance Square will lead a delegation of eighteen Fort Worth Ambassadors to Trier, Germany November 30 – December 8 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the partnership as sister cities. The mission’s purpose is to build economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between Fort Worth and Germany.

3220406_1_Weihnachtsmarkt-Trier-G6B58CTU1.1-ORG“Fort Worth is eager to recommit to this important relationship with Germany and looks forward to many more beneficial exchanges between our two cities.  Our commitment to growing our educational, business, and cultural connections must remain a long-term priority for sustainability of our relationship with Trier,” said Johnny Campbell.

trierpanoramapallienWhile there the delegation will visit local sites of interest including the famed Christkindl markets, as well as a local refugee clinic. The exchange will also include visits to Heidelberg, Cologne, and the neighboring country of Luxembourg.

The delegation is being led by Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board; Hannah Behrens, Trier Chair; Michael S. Hyatt, Director Emeritus; Mary Palko, Director Emerita; Mae Ferguson, President/CEO; David Cooke, City Manager; Rae Hyatt, Board of Directors; Greg Jackson, Budapest Chair; and Michael Parker, Board of Directors.

ttm_basilikatrier2Trier was signed as Fort Worth’s second sister city. Signed in 1987, this partnership has resulted in many programs including: high school and university exchanges; partnerships with artists to participate in the Main Street Arts Festival; municipal exchanges with the Fort Worth Fire Department; internships in the Fort Worth Sister Cities’ office, as well as local law firms; cultural exchanges featuring regional cuisine and customs; and hunting expeditions into the mountains of Germany and across the plains of Texas.

2016-11-29 12:59

Fort Worth to Celebrate 30th Anniversary With German Partner

Fort Worth, Texas – City Manager David Cooke and Sister Cities Chair Johnny Campbell leading group to Germany 

portanigraapsis1Fort Worth City Manager David Cooke and Fort Worth Sister Cities International Chair Johnny Campbell of Sundance Square will lead a delegation of eighteen Fort Worth Ambassadors to Trier, Germany November 30 – December 8 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the partnership as sister cities. The mission’s purpose is to build economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between Fort Worth and Germany.

3220406_1_Weihnachtsmarkt-Trier-G6B58CTU1.1-ORG“Fort Worth is eager to recommit to this important relationship with Germany and looks forward to many more beneficial exchanges between our two cities.  Our commitment to growing our educational, business, and cultural connections must remain a long-term priority for sustainability of our relationship with Trier,” said Johnny Campbell.

trierpanoramapallienWhile there the delegation will visit local sites of interest including the famed Christkindl markets, as well as a local refugee clinic. The exchange will also include visits to Heidelberg, Cologne, and the neighboring country of Luxembourg.

The delegation is being led by Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board; Hannah Behrens, Trier Chair; Michael S. Hyatt, Director Emeritus; Mary Palko, Director Emerita; Mae Ferguson, President/CEO; David Cooke, City Manager; Rae Hyatt, Board of Directors; Greg Jackson, Budapest Chair; and Michael Parker, Board of Directors.

ttm_basilikatrier2Trier was signed as Fort Worth’s second sister city. Signed in 1987, this partnership has resulted in many programs including: high school and university exchanges; partnerships with artists to participate in the Main Street Arts Festival; municipal exchanges with the Fort Worth Fire Department; internships in the Fort Worth Sister Cities’ office, as well as local law firms; cultural exchanges featuring regional cuisine and customs; and hunting expeditions into the mountains of Germany and across the plains of Texas.

Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia Visits Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities holds discussion on current issues

consul-generalThe Fort Worth community is invited to a presentation sponsored by Fort Worth Sister Cities International and Tarrant County College on Indonesia Today, November 10, 6:00 p.m. at Tarrant County College, Trinity River East Campus. The event is open to the public.

The event will include an analysis of current events and politics in Indonesia from the Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia, the Honorable Henk Edward Saroinsong.

“Maintaining a strong relationship between Fort Worth and our sister city, Bandung, Indonesia, is very important. We want to educate our community with learned speakers, like the Consul General, in order to gain a better understanding of what is happening in other parts of the world. With U.S. politics being a hot topic, it’s important to hear about current events in other countries,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Prior to his assignment as Consul General, Saroinsong served as a Senior Foreign Service Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Indonesia. He started his diplomatic career in 1986 as the Head of Section for Northern and Middle Africa Affairs and Directorate of Africa and Middle East Affairs.

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.

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.

Sister Cities Partnering with FWISD For Spanish Immersion Camp 2016

Fort Worth, Texas — Local students receiving Spanish enrichment training

Fort Worth Sister Cities welcomes 10 university students and 2 educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Tec de Monterrey University June 13-24 for the third Spanish Immersion Camp for elementary students, in partnership with the FWISD. The Toluca students will act as international facilitators for the two-week camp.

“The FWISD is thrilled to partner with Sister Cities in this way providing our students an opportunity to study Spanish from native speakers.  Last year’s camp proved to be very successful with over 125 elementary students participating,” said Carrie Harrington, Director of World Languages for the FWISD.

All Toluca facilitators and educators will be home hosted by local families in order to give them a glimpse into American life and to give the hosting families exposure to Spanish from native speakers as well.

While here the group from Toluca will also have an opportunity to explore cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality.   Visits are scheduled to the Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Water Gardens, Sundance Square Plaza, and more.

Toluca, Mexico is Fort Worth’s closest Sister City. Signed in 1998, this partnership has resulted in many exciting programs such as: middle and high school-to-school partnerships including the Model U.N. program; municipal and economic forums; monarch butterfly tourism exchanges; culture, language, and mentoring programs; a medical school intern program; and City of Fort Worth Police Dept. training program.

2016-06-21 04:17

Sister Cities Partnering with FWISD For Spanish Immersion Camp 2016

Fort Worth, Texas — Local students receiving Spanish enrichment training

Fort Worth Sister Cities welcomes 10 university students and 2 educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Tec de Monterrey University June 13-24 for the third Spanish Immersion Camp for elementary students, in partnership with the FWISD. The Toluca students will act as international facilitators for the two-week camp.

“The FWISD is thrilled to partner with Sister Cities in this way providing our students an opportunity to study Spanish from native speakers.  Last year’s camp proved to be very successful with over 125 elementary students participating,” said Carrie Harrington, Director of World Languages for the FWISD.

All Toluca facilitators and educators will be home hosted by local families in order to give them a glimpse into American life and to give the hosting families exposure to Spanish from native speakers as well.

While here the group from Toluca will also have an opportunity to explore cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality.   Visits are scheduled to the Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Water Gardens, Sundance Square Plaza, and more.

Toluca, Mexico is Fort Worth’s closest Sister City. Signed in 1998, this partnership has resulted in many exciting programs such as: middle and high school-to-school partnerships including the Model U.N. program; municipal and economic forums; monarch butterfly tourism exchanges; culture, language, and mentoring programs; a medical school intern program; and City of Fort Worth Police Dept. training program.

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

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

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!

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!

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.

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.

Mayor Price to Visit Fort Worth’s 1st Sister City – Reggio Emilia

Fort Worth, TX– Price to meet Reggio Mayor for talks on future collaborations Piazza Prampolini in Reggio Emilia

It is only appropriate that Mayor Betsy Price’s first visit to one of Fort Worth’s sister cities be to Reggio Emilia, Italy.  Reggio was Fort Worth’s first sister city signed in 1985.  Mayor Price’s visit comes at the end of a DFW Airport mission trip to the UK.

“Fort Worth Sister Cities plays a huge role in enhancing the image of our city abroad. Our city’s future is bright and continues to focus on promoting international business, trade and tourism,” said Mayor Betsy Price.  “These are the reasons I am headed to meet with our sister city partner in Italy. It’s about making those connections and putting Fort Worth on the map.”

Student athletes at the Tricolore Youth Sports Games in 2009

While in Reggio, Price will visit with Mayor Vecchi and councilors to discuss potential partnership opportunities and exchanges. She will also receive information on the upcoming Tricolore Youth Sports Games that will be attended by over 100 Fort Worth student athletes as the sole representatives of the USA later this summer. This sports competition is held in Reggio every four years and Fort Worth is the only U.S. city invited because of the sister city relationship.

Located in Northern Italy, Reggio Emilia is considered one of the most prosperous and livable cities in Italy. Founded in the second century B.C., the preserved Roman roads are lined with architectural marvels and elegant cathedrals. It is the birthplace of the Italian flag and home of the world famous Max Mara Italian fashion line. Its early childhood program, Reggio Children, is a model throughout the world and its municipal theatre has been named one of the best opera houses in the world.

2015-05-18 04:58

Mayor Price to Visit Fort Worth’s 1st Sister City – Reggio Emilia

Fort Worth, TX– Price to meet Reggio Mayor for talks on future collaborations Piazza Prampolini in Reggio Emilia

It is only appropriate that Mayor Betsy Price’s first visit to one of Fort Worth’s sister cities be to Reggio Emilia, Italy.  Reggio was Fort Worth’s first sister city signed in 1985.  Mayor Price’s visit comes at the end of a DFW Airport mission trip to the UK.

“Fort Worth Sister Cities plays a huge role in enhancing the image of our city abroad. Our city’s future is bright and continues to focus on promoting international business, trade and tourism,” said Mayor Betsy Price.  “These are the reasons I am headed to meet with our sister city partner in Italy. It’s about making those connections and putting Fort Worth on the map.”

Student athletes at the Tricolore Youth Sports Games in 2009

While in Reggio, Price will visit with Mayor Vecchi and councilors to discuss potential partnership opportunities and exchanges. She will also receive information on the upcoming Tricolore Youth Sports Games that will be attended by over 100 Fort Worth student athletes as the sole representatives of the USA later this summer. This sports competition is held in Reggio every four years and Fort Worth is the only U.S. city invited because of the sister city relationship.

Located in Northern Italy, Reggio Emilia is considered one of the most prosperous and livable cities in Italy. Founded in the second century B.C., the preserved Roman roads are lined with architectural marvels and elegant cathedrals. It is the birthplace of the Italian flag and home of the world famous Max Mara Italian fashion line. Its early childhood program, Reggio Children, is a model throughout the world and its municipal theatre has been named one of the best opera houses in the world.