Orinda, California [November 8, 2025] — Board members of the Vallejo Sister City Association (VSCA) joined sister city leaders from across Northern California this weekend at the 48th NorCal Chapter Annual Conference, “Sister City Showcase!”—a dynamic gathering dedicated to strengthening global partnerships and promoting peace through people-to-people diplomacy.
Hosted by the Northern California Chapter of Sister Cities International (SCI), the conference brought together representatives from cities, elected officials, and community stakeholders to share best practices, innovative initiatives, and success stories from local sister city programs. The atmosphere was one of collaboration, inspiration, and renewed commitment to international friendship.
A Full Day of Connection and Idea-Sharing
The conference opened at 9:30 a.m., followed by a welcome session and introductions. Attendees received an in-depth update during the Sister Cities International Report, highlighting national initiatives, expanded global partnerships, and emerging opportunities for cities to deepen cross-cultural exchange.
The signature Sister City Showcases—presented in two sessions—featured standout programs across the region. Cities shared creative approaches to student exchanges, cultural festivals, youth leadership development, and humanitarian partnerships.
A featured speaker addressed the continued importance of citizen diplomacy, echoing Sister Cities International’s founding message: that global peace can be pursued through meaningful relationships between everyday people.
During the lunch hour, guests enjoyed live entertainment and explored sister city exhibits, each highlighting the cultural diversity and impact of international partnerships.
The afternoon included breakout sessions focused on networking, problem-solving, and building more resilient and imaginative sister city programs. The day concluded with closing remarks at 2 p.m., followed by the NorCal Chapter’s 4th Quarter meeting and annual elections.
Honoring a Legacy of Global Friendship
The conference also honored the long history of the sister city movement. What began as a twinning relationship between Paderborn, Germany and Le Mans, France in 836 evolved into a modern global network following the leadership of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who founded Sister Cities International in 1956. His vision of “peace through people” has since inspired more than 2,300 partnerships across 150 countries.
California has played a key role in this history, including the formation of the Northern and Southern California SCI chapters in 1974—making the state one of the most active sister city regions in the nation.
Vallejo’s Commitment to Global Citizenship
For the Vallejo Sister City Association, attending the conference reinforced its long-held mission to expand international understanding and create pathways for youth, families, and community members to participate in global exchange.
VSCA board members engaged with peer organizations, learned about new SCI initiatives, and explored opportunities to further strengthen Vallejo’s sister city relationships through cultural, educational, and economic collaborations.
Looking Forward
As the Northern California chapter continues building momentum, the Vallejo Sister City Association looks ahead to bringing new ideas, partnerships, and programs home to the community.
The 48th “Sister City Showcase!” served as a reminder that even in a rapidly changing world, the foundation of global peace remains rooted in personal connections, shared experiences, and community-driven diplomacy—values that the VSCA continues to champion.
