2012-07-02 12:58

Visions of Peace Theme of Sister Cities Leadership Academies

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, 125 participants will converge at TCU July 14-28 to share their cultures and learn about leadership. Students from Fort Worth, Italy, Germany, Japan, Hungary, Mexico, Swaziland, Indonesia and China will be in Fort Worth for this 2 week program. The Academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding, problem-solving, and sharing cultures. The closing ceremonies take place on July 28th, 10:00 a.m. at TCU’s Ed Landreth Auditorium. The ILA Class of 2012 will demonstrate what they have accomplished during the Academy in an elaborate performance. The ceremony is free and open to the public. This year also marks the 8th year of ILA’s middle school program, Jr. International Leadership Academy (JILA) held at McLean 6th Grade campus July 9—13. 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 Reggio Emilia, Italy; Trier, Germany; Guiyang, China and Mbabane, Swaziland gaining an international education. “These 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.