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.

Sister Cities Partnering With FWISD For 4th Spanish Immersion Camp

Fort Worth, Texas — Local elementary students receiving Spanish enrichment training

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome 10 university students and 2 educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Tec de Monterrey university this week for the 4th Spanish Immersion and Enrichment Camp for elementary students in partnership with the FWISD. The Toluca students will act as international facilitators for the two-week camp ending June 23.

“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 Elda Rojas Director of the World Language Department for the FWISD.

All 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 Spanish from native speakers as well.

While here the group will also explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality. Visits include the Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, the Kimbell Art Museum, Concert in the 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 a Model UN program; municipal and economic forums; monarch butterfly tourism exchanges; culture, language, and mentoring programs; a medical school intern program; a City of Fort Worth Police Department training program; and a symposium on women’s issues.

 

2017-06-06 08:45

Sister Cities Partnering With FWISD For 4th Spanish Immersion Camp

Fort Worth, Texas — Local elementary students receiving Spanish enrichment training

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome 10 university students and 2 educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Tec de Monterrey university this week for the 4th Spanish Immersion and Enrichment Camp for elementary students in partnership with the FWISD. The Toluca students will act as international facilitators for the two-week camp ending June 23.

“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 Elda Rojas Director of the World Language Department for the FWISD.

All 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 Spanish from native speakers as well.

While here the group will also explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality. Visits include the Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, the Kimbell Art Museum, Concert in the 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 a Model UN program; municipal and economic forums; monarch butterfly tourism exchanges; culture, language, and mentoring programs; a medical school intern program; a City of Fort Worth Police Department training program; and a symposium on women’s issues.

 

Youth Represent Fort Worth in Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

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

Twenty-nine students and fourteen leaders are visiting four of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities this month including Trier, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Toluca, Mexico.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education.  In addition to learning leadership skills and participating in cultural exchange, they also receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S., Texas, and Fort Worth which enhances their college and career opportunities

“Today’s global community and marketplace is increasingly interconnected, making cultural understanding and exchange a pivotal aspect of a student’s education. Our student-centered program ensures students develop the skills necessary for them to pursue their own goals and become globally-minded leaders in their communities,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Educators from the FWISD, private schools, and local universities will lead the delegations including:

Trier, Germany: Tracey Cravens, North Side High School and Nancy Martinez, Sam Houston State University.

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School, Heather Kurima, Trimble Tech High School, Jay Kurima, Texas Academy of Biomedical Science and Jose Frayre, Polytechnic High School, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Arian Martinez, Tarrant County College.

Budapest, Hungary: James Gleaton, Tarrant County College and T’Aundra Harlin, Uplift Summit International Prep., as well as Associate Delegation Leader Samuel Whiting, George Washington University.

Toluca, Mexico: Masaki Nakamoto, Paschal High School and Rhonda O’Brien, North Side High School, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Clara Counts, Tarrant County College and Educator Ambassador Jose Romero, Polytechnic High School.

More students will depart for exchanges in the summer.

2017-03-01 10:17

Youth Represent Fort Worth in Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

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

Twenty-nine students and fourteen leaders are visiting four of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities this month including Trier, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Reggio Emilia, Italy; and Toluca, Mexico.

The youth of Fort Worth benefit from a global education.  In addition to learning leadership skills and participating in cultural exchange, they also receive training to become citizen diplomats representing the U.S., Texas, and Fort Worth which enhances their college and career opportunities

“Today’s global community and marketplace is increasingly interconnected, making cultural understanding and exchange a pivotal aspect of a student’s education. Our student-centered program ensures students develop the skills necessary for them to pursue their own goals and become globally-minded leaders in their communities,” said Johnny Campbell, Chairman of the Board of Sister Cities.

Educators from the FWISD, private schools, and local universities will lead the delegations including:

Trier, Germany: Tracey Cravens, North Side High School and Nancy Martinez, Sam Houston State University.

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School, Heather Kurima, Trimble Tech High School, Jay Kurima, Texas Academy of Biomedical Science and Jose Frayre, Polytechnic High School, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Arian Martinez, Tarrant County College.

Budapest, Hungary: James Gleaton, Tarrant County College and T’Aundra Harlin, Uplift Summit International Prep., as well as Associate Delegation Leader Samuel Whiting, George Washington University.

Toluca, Mexico: Masaki Nakamoto, Paschal High School and Rhonda O’Brien, North Side High School, as well as Associate Delegation Leader Clara Counts, Tarrant County College and Educator Ambassador Jose Romero, Polytechnic High School.

More students will depart for exchanges in the summer.

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2017

FORT WORTH, TX – Students selected to visit Fort Worth’s Sister Cities in 2017 

YA in FlorenceNearly 100 Fort Worth students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Ambassadors to several of Fort Worth’s international partners.

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

sundance squareThis year’s Ambassadors represent the Fort Worth ISD, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, Everman ISD, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, Keller ISD, and several private schools. Scholarship assistance of over $100,000 is awarded annually ensuring a diverse group of students and teachers who will represent Fort Worth.

The selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards, and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad.

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

The exchanges are scheduled for March, June, and July to Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, and Mexico. A complete list of Youth Ambassadors can be found at https://www.fwsistercities.org/fort-worth-youth-ambassadors-2017/.

Congratulations to all the Youth Ambassadors who will embark on life-changing programs in 2017.

2016-11-28 03:48

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2017

FORT WORTH, TX – Students selected to visit Fort Worth’s Sister Cities in 2017 

YA in FlorenceNearly 100 Fort Worth students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been selected to represent the City of Fort Worth as Ambassadors to several of Fort Worth’s international partners.

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

sundance squareThis year’s Ambassadors represent the Fort Worth ISD, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, Everman ISD, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, Keller ISD, and several private schools. Scholarship assistance of over $100,000 is awarded annually ensuring a diverse group of students and teachers who will represent Fort Worth.

The selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards, and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad.

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

The exchanges are scheduled for March, June, and July to Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, and Mexico. A complete list of Youth Ambassadors can be found at https://www.fwsistercities.org/fort-worth-youth-ambassadors-2017/.

Congratulations to all the Youth Ambassadors who will embark on life-changing programs in 2017.

Local Educators Will Represent Fort Worth Abroad

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities selects leaders for youth exchanges 

DLs at craterTwelve delegation leaders from area schools and organizations were recently selected to lead youth exchanges to six of Fort Worth’s sister cities next year. Nearly 125 local students will be interviewed for approximately 80 available slots to travel as Youth Ambassadors.

Ambassador Educators selected to represent Fort Worth abroad are:

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School; Cara Jones, Paschal High School Trier, Germany: Tracey Cravens, Northside High School Budapest, Hungary: James Gleaton, Tarrant County College; T’Aundra Harlin, Uplift Summit School Toluca, Mexico: Masaki Nakamoto, Paschal High School; Rhonda O’Brien, Northside High School Nagaoka, Japan: Jay Kurima, TABS; Maria Zambrano, TABS Bandung, Indonesia: Dr. Staussa Ervin, TCC; Sherri Whiting Harashin Scholars to Nagaoka: Liliana Hinojosa, Diamond Hill Jarvis, High School; Mikako Daniel, Arlington Heights High School

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

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

2016-10-21 10:46

Local Educators Will Represent Fort Worth Abroad

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities selects leaders for youth exchanges 

DLs at craterTwelve delegation leaders from area schools and organizations were recently selected to lead youth exchanges to six of Fort Worth’s sister cities next year. Nearly 125 local students will be interviewed for approximately 80 available slots to travel as Youth Ambassadors.

Ambassador Educators selected to represent Fort Worth abroad are:

Reggio Emilia, Italy: Marvin Vann Griffith, Southwest High School; Cara Jones, Paschal High School Trier, Germany: Tracey Cravens, Northside High School Budapest, Hungary: James Gleaton, Tarrant County College; T’Aundra Harlin, Uplift Summit School Toluca, Mexico: Masaki Nakamoto, Paschal High School; Rhonda O’Brien, Northside High School Nagaoka, Japan: Jay Kurima, TABS; Maria Zambrano, TABS Bandung, Indonesia: Dr. Staussa Ervin, TCC; Sherri Whiting Harashin Scholars to Nagaoka: Liliana Hinojosa, Diamond Hill Jarvis, High School; Mikako Daniel, Arlington Heights High School

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

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

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.

Fort Worth To Celebrate 5th Anniversary With Chinese Partner

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sister Cities Accepting Applications for Jr. Leadership Academy

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

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

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

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

students making funny faces“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth and prepares these students for a global society,” said Nancy Marchant, JILA Coordinator.

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

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

2016-04-18 12:49

Sister Cities Accepting Applications for Jr. Leadership Academy

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

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

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

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

students making funny faces“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth and prepares these students for a global society,” said Nancy Marchant, JILA Coordinator.

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

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

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016-02-25 11:39

Youth Ambassadors Travel to Germany, Hungary, Italy & Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2016

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016-01-07 08:55

International Youth Ambassadors Selected 2016

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

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

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

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

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

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