The 2025 Denver Sister Cities Annual Meeting & Celebration was an evening to remember, bringing together 180 attendees, including global leaders, cultural performers, and community members, all committed to strengthening international partnerships. The theme, Denver for Africa, honored 50 years with Nairobi, 30 years with Axum, and 65 years with Takayama, while celebrating the deep connections Denver shares with all ten of its sister cities.
A Night of Powerful Moments
The evening was filled with inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and meaningful conversations, highlighting the impact of citizen diplomacy in strengthening global and local ties. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with booths representing each sister city, showcasing the cultural, business, and educational events and exchanges that make these relationships so valuable.
Remarks from Sister Cities International CEO Dr. Ricki Garrett
Dr. Ricki Garrett, CEO of Sister Cities International, shared her vision for the future of global engagement, emphasizing how citizen diplomacy continues to foster peace, connection, and collaboration. She highlighted SCI’s commitment to expanding partnerships between U.S. and African cities, reinforcing the importance of cross-cultural exchanges in today’s world.
Remarks from Former Mayor Wellington Webb
Former Mayor Wellington Webb, who played a pivotal role in establishing Denver’s sister city relationships with Axum, Ethiopia, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, reflected on the enduring impact of these partnerships. He spoke about the power of international collaboration, how Denver has grown as a global city, and the importance of continuing to foster relationships that bring communities together across borders.
Cultural Performances & Community Engagement
The celebration came to life through vibrant cultural performances, featuring music, dance, and storytelling from our sister cities. Guests were immersed in the traditions and artistry of Nairobi, Axum, Takayama, and beyond, experiencing firsthand the richness of Denver’s global connections.
Concluding the Evening with the Flag Ceremony
The night concluded with one of the most moving moments—the flag ceremony. Representatives proudly carried the flags of Denver’s ten sister cities, symbolizing unity, partnership, and a shared vision for the future. As the flags were raised, the spirit of citizen diplomacy was on full display, reminding everyone of the importance of these relationships in fostering peace, understanding, and collaboration worldwide.
Gratitude & Looking Ahead
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors, including Three Tomatoes Catering, DEN, Denver HRCP, Geotech Environmental, and World Trade Center Denver, as well as our volunteers, committees, and community partners for making this night possible. As we reflect on an impactful year and look forward to new opportunities, we invite you to stay engaged, celebrate global culture, and help us continue building bridges worldwide. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!
