The vibrant cultural exchange fostered by the Hawkesbury City Council was celebrated at the recent July council meeting, showcasing the participation of 18 enthusiastic students from the Hawkesbury region, Kyotamba in Japan, and Temple City in the USA. These young ambassadors took part in this year’s Hawkesbury Sister City Association Youth Ambassador Exchange Program, a cherished initiative that has been in place for over 40 years.
In an exciting development for 2025, five students from Hawkesbury are set to embark on a transformative five-week exchange in both Kyotamba and Temple City. To reciprocate, local families in the Hawkesbury will open their homes to welcome five students from Temple City and three from Kyotamba, further enriching the community’s cultural tapestry.
During the council meeting, all 18 participating students were honored with certificates acknowledging their involvement.
In addressing the students, Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather said: “Since 1988 hundreds of students have participated in exchanges between Temple City and the Hawkesbury through the five-week home stay program.
“The programs that the Sister City Association provides have given many students like you the opportunity to experience different cultures and develop skills and knowledge that will be treasured for a lifetime.
“Building Friendships between People and Nations is the motto of the Sister Cities program and I hope many of you have made long lasting friendships through your recent journey.
“We wish you well on your travels and hope that this unique opportunity provides an experience and memories that you will carry with you always.”
