Fostering goodwill and international cooperation between Salinas and Ichikikushikino.

Our mission is to provide person to person citizen diplomacy through cultural, educational, and professional exchange programs, to develop global leaders, and promote mutual respect and friendships for the cities of Salinas and Ichikikushikino.

What’s New?

Student Ambassadors Return From Japan 

Our Student Ambassador cohort for 2025 have returned from their two week trip to Japan! The students had a wonderful time travelling from Tokyo to Ichikikushikino, making many stops along the way to see historical sites. Despite the sites they saw, our students were happiest about their homestay experience in Ichikikushikino. It was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for them, and many students have already experessed their interest in returning to Japan sometime soon.

Special thank you to chaperones Edgar Navarro and America Cleary, both former Student Ambassadors themselves, for ensuring our students had a wonderful experience!

Interested in Applying?

If you are a current high school freshman, sophomore, or junior, you are eligible to become a Student Ambassador for our Student Exchange Trip. Click the button below to see more information.

Event Pictures

Come see what’s new from our most recent events!

Founded in 1979, we have been sending Student Ambassador groups since 1987. Click the button below to learn more about what we, as an Association, do.

About the Association

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Members!

On behalf of the Sister City Board of Directors, we wanted to extend you all a huge thank you for your constant support. Your help and support towards our goals have made a significant difference in the lives of the Salinas youth. You can find more information focused towards both prospective and long time members on our member homepage!

Our Sister City

Find more information on our Sister City, Ichikikushikino, at their website!

 

Interested in learning who comprises our Board of Directors?

Follow the button below to see a list of the current members on our Board of Directors.

 

Our student exchange program runs biennially and students are selected from local high schools to represent their school and the City of Salinas as Ambassadors on a two week cultural trip. They visit cultural sites from Tokyo to Ichikikushikino, and participate in home stays with families in our sister city of Ichikikushikino. This gives the students the opportunity to learn to interact with members of another culture and language. When the students return, they will share their experiences with their classmates and know that they are Ambassadors not only in their local community, but also members of a National and International community.