This August, Lakeland, Florida, welcomed 14 students and three adult chaperones from its Sister City, Imabari, Japan, for an educational and cultural exchange celebrating international friendship and community connections.
The visit also welcomed Imabari’s Superintendent of Schools and a city councilman, along with two companions, for a three-day visit focused on education and community engagement. Students and visiting officials toured local elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as Florida Southern College. Throughout their school visits, students connected with their American peers, participated in an art project, and exchanged social media information to help maintain friendships beyond the exchange.
A highlight of the educational program was a trip to Kennedy Space Center, where students participated in a daylong STEM program and toured the center, exploring opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The exchange also offered an inside look at local government and public services. Lakeland’s mayor and city commissioners welcomed the visiting students at City Hall, followed by visits to the Lakeland Fire and Police Departments. Students also toured local businesses, including a Japanese restaurant where they enjoyed a traditional Japanese meal and the ice cream manufacturing facility of Publix Super Markets, where they sampled seasonal flavors soon to be released.
Beyond the educational itinerary, students experienced Florida’s culture, attractions, and outdoor activities alongside their host families. Activities included a group visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, kayaking, boating, biking, swimming, and attending a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game. The exchange concluded with a farewell beach party at Fort De Soto Park on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Through classroom visits, hands-on learning, cultural experiences, and time spent with local families, the Lakeland–Imabari student exchange gave young people an opportunity to learn from one another and build lasting friendships across cultures. The visit exemplifies how sister city partnerships create meaningful connections between communities and foster international understanding through people-to-people exchange.
Story and photos provided by Colleen Bolger and Brenda Frinks
