On March 17, 2025, the Denver Young Ambassadors took a major step toward becoming global leaders as they officially took their Citizen Diplomat Oath at the City and County Building in the Parr-Widener Community Room. This special event marked the beginning of their journeys representing Denver in Brest, France; Takayama, Japan; and Potenza, Italy through the Denver Sister Cities International program.
Each Denver Young Ambassador had an Opportunity to Share
A Ceremony of Commitment and Inspiration
The room was filled with excitement and anticipation as family, friends, and city officials gathered to recognize this new class of Young Ambassadors. In attendance were Perla Gheiler, Executive Director of Denver Human Rights & Community Partnerships and Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity, who stepped in for Mayor Mike Johnston to lead the Citizen Diplomat Oath ceremony.
Each Young Ambassador stood before their peers and city leaders, sharing personal reflections on what Denver means to them and their aspirations for their upcoming student exchange experiences.
"You have chosen this path of growth—one that goes beyond the people, places, and things you are familiar with," said Sacha Francois Heppell, Executive Director of Denver Sister Cities International. "This is your chance to step out of your comfort zone, to learn, to make a difference, and to represent Denver on the global stage."
Words from the Sister City Committees
Committee Chairs from Brest, Takayama, and Potenza shared their insights into the cultural significance of these exchanges and how each city’s unique history and traditions will shape the students' experiences.
- Gil Asakawa, Chair of the Takayama Committee, spoke about the deep-rooted traditions and modern vibrancy of Japan, encouraging the students to embrace the contrasts between old and new.
- Laurette Heppell, filling in for Bradly Wentker representing the Brest Committee, emphasized the historical significance of Denver’s first sister city, established after World War II, and how the exchange program has evolved over the decades.
- Pietro Simonetti, Chair of the Potenza Committee, described the region’s hidden cultural gems and the "secret Italy" that even many Italians have yet to explore.
Each committee expressed their enthusiasm for the new Ambassadors and their confidence in their ability to represent Denver with curiosity and integrity.
The Denver Young Ambassadors Step Forward
As each Young Ambassador stepped forward, they shared their personal reflections on what Denver means to them and what they hope to gain from their upcoming journeys. Many spoke about the city's diverse culture, welcoming community, and opportunities for growth, highlighting how these experiences have shaped them into open-minded and globally curious individuals. Several students emphasized their excitement to immerse themselves in a new culture, learn a new language, and form lasting relationships with their host families abroad. Others expressed their eagerness to exchange ideas, share their own heritage, and broaden their understanding of the world through firsthand experiences.
For some, this will be their first time traveling outside the United States, making the exchange an even more profound opportunity for personal and academic growth. Returning Ambassadors shared their excitement to reconnect with old friends while mentoring first-time travelers. Whether heading to Brest, Takayama, or Potenza, each student demonstrated a deep sense of curiosity, responsibility, and pride in representing Denver on the global stage. Their enthusiasm and commitment to cross-cultural understanding underscored the transformative power of citizen diplomacy, reinforcing the mission of Denver Sister Cities International.
Denver Young Ambassador Citizen Diplomacy Oath
The Citizen Diplomat Oath
As the final moment of the ceremony approached, Adeeb Khan led the Young Ambassadors in taking their Citizen Diplomat Oath, a pledge to foster international goodwill and represent Denver, the United States, and global unity.
"I am a Citizen Diplomat, appointed by Mayor Mike Johnston and the Denver City Council," the Ambassadors repeated in unison. "I am committed to strengthening relationships between Denver and the world."
Recognition at Denver City Council
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the Denver Young Ambassadors were formally acknowledged during the Denver City Council meeting in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. Councilwoman Jamie Torres, along with other Denver City Council members, welcomed the students and recognized their dedication to fostering international goodwill through student exchange.
During the council’s announcements, Councilwoman Torres highlighted the importance of citizen diplomacy and commended the Young Ambassadors for their commitment to representing Denver abroad. She spoke about the significance of these exchanges in building cross-cultural understanding and strengthening global relationships, emphasizing how each student plays a vital role in continuing Denver’s long tradition of international collaboration.
The Young Ambassadors, who attended the meeting as part of their introduction to local governance, received warm applause from council members and attendees. This recognition underscored the importance of their upcoming journeys and also reinforced the importance of connecting communities worldwide. With their journeys ahead, their experiences will shape their own futures and the connections between Denver and its sister cities.
Looking Ahead
Denver Sister Cities International is committed to fostering cross-cultural connections through exchanges like these, and we are immensely proud of the Young Ambassadors for their dedication and courage in taking on this role. We look forward to following their journeys, hearing their stories, and seeing how they bring back lessons from abroad to enrich our city. To our 2025 Denver Young Ambassadors—congratulations, safe travels, and may your experiences shape a brighter, more connected world.
