Each year, the Omaha Sister Cities Association (OSCA) selects an outstanding local high school student to attend the Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. This immersive, week-long program brings together young leaders ages 14–18 from across the United States and around the world to develop leadership skills, explore global issues, and experience citizen diplomacy firsthand. Participants take part in leadership seminars, cultural activities throughout Washington, D.C., and an exciting diplomacy simulation at the U.S. Department of State, where they collaborate to solve real-world international challenges.

This year, OSCA selected Samantha, an area sophomore, to represent Omaha Sister Cities at the Summit. Through this unique experience, Samantha joined other emerging leaders committed to building cross-cultural understanding and promoting peace through people-to-people connections. Reflecting on her experience, Samantha said, "One thing I learned about leadership and working with people from different cultures is that people can be very different, but we often share a common goal. I also learned that patience plays a big role in cooperation and understanding, rather than shutting others down or arguing just to be heard."

If you have a high school student interested in leadership, international affairs, or cultural exchange, follow the Omaha Sister Cities Association on Facebook. Each year, application information for the summer Youth Leadership Summit is announced early in the year. For questions, email executivedirector@omahasistercities.com.