Sister City Commission Strengthens Global Ties through Youth Exchange and Cultural Landmarks
Vallejo, CA [December 15, 2025] – The Vallejo Sister City Commission recently convened to discuss a series of robust international initiatives, focusing heavily on expanding youth programs, advancing local cultural landmarks, and formalizing new global friendships. From digital penpals in the Philippines to upcoming athletic exchanges in Mexico, the meeting highlighted Vallejo’s active role in fostering international diplomacy at the grassroots level.
Youth Programs Take Center Stage
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the thriving educational exchange with Baguio City, Philippines. Now in its third year, the program has grown to include 74 student pairs from MIT and Baguio City High School. Through digital folders and social media, students share “day in the life” slides, music, and cultural hobbies. The Commission viewed presentations showcasing students making parols (star lanterns) and celebrated the success of a recent t-shirt making contest and memorabilia exchange.
The Youth Subcommittee also reported a surge in activity. Youth Representatives announced plans for a winter break potluck to share cultural foods and a “Gallery Walk” to exchange traditional clothing and accessories. The subcommittee is actively recruiting younger students from MIT to ensure the program’s longevity.
Delegation Trip to Ensenada and Possible New Friendship City Ghana
Vallejo’s reach is poised to expand with upcoming trips and new friendship statuses. Plans are underway for a flag football exchange, in partnership with the Coach Sarna Flag Football League, to Ensenada, Mexico, tentatively scheduled for June 22–26, 2026. This trip will involve local coaches and students collaborating with Mexican orphanages to promote both sports and cultural understanding. Additionally, a “courtesy call” with the Mayor of Ensenada is being organized for June to further formalize these ties.
Progress was also reported regarding a request for Friendship City status from the Central Municipality of Ghana. The Commission has provided the “A to Z” process for formation to the interested parties. To qualify, the Ghanaian representatives must now form an official committee, hold meetings, and provide rosters and minutes to the Vallejo Commission.
Enhancing Vallejo’s Cultural Landscape
The Commission is moving forward with two major local projects:
- City Freeway Entrance Signs: The subcommittee is pushing for the installation of signs at specific city entrances to highlight Vallejo’s sister city relationships. The Commission intends to place these signs on city property to streamline the process and reduce costs.
- Japanese Garden: The Commission unanimously approved plans for an outdoor display and authorized Commissioner Stewart to present these designs to the City Council for a final decision. The project includes reinvigorated landscaping and a specific placement for a water feature.
Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
The Commission officially approved its 2026 meeting schedule, transitioning most meetings to Mondays. Other international updates included a planned November 2026 trip to Bagamoyo, Tanzania, which will include visits to the US Embassy and a medical center, and news of potential free higher education opportunities for international students in Norway.
Public Access
Sister City Commission meetings are conducted in a public forum. We encourage our members and future members to listen in and participate in our commission meetings, to learn about the global initiatives the commission and association are supporting for the City of Vallejo. Meeting recordings and agendas may be accessed by clicking here [link will open to a City of Vallejo website].
