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!