About Us

Our History


Founded in 1981, the Sister Cities Association of Mesa, Arizona, fosters cultural exchange and international understanding through partnerships with five sister cities: Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada; Caraz, Peru; Guaymas, Mexico; Kaiping, Guangdong, China; and Upper Hutt, New Zealand. These partnerships have enriched Mesa’s community through student exchanges, cultural events, economic cooperation, and humanitarian aid.

Guaymas, Mexico

est. 1981

Embracing the Sea of Cortez, Guaymas, Mexico, captivates with its vibrant coastal culture, delectable seafood, and stunning beaches. From the lively Malecón promenade to the secluded coves of San Carlos, Guaymas offers a blend of urban excitement and tranquil escapes.

Upper Hutt, New Zealand

est. 1985

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Remutaka Range in New Zealand, Upper Hutt exudes a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city offers a vibrant downtown, a thriving arts scene, and an abundance of outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Caraz, Peru

est. 1989

Caraz invites travelers with its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and authentic Andean charm. A gateway to Huascarán National Park, Caraz offers adventure seekers a haven for trekking, mountaineering, and exploring glacial lakes. Delve into local traditions, savor delectable cuisine, and uncover the hidden treasures of this enchanting Andean town.

Kaiping, China

est. 1994

Located in Guangdong Province, China, Kaiping is renowned for its iconic Diaolou, fortified towers that blend Chinese and Western architectural styles. These towers, scattered amidst lush rice paddies and traditional villages, stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Kaiping’s people.

Burnaby, Canada

est. 1999

A shining beacon in British Columbia, Burnaby is a vibrant city that blends urban excitement with natural splendor. From its bustling shopping district to its serene mountain park, Burnaby caters to diverse interests, making it an ideal destination for urbanites and nature lovers alike.

Board of Directors

Officers:
Chris Glover
President

Gerry Paulus
Vice President

Todd Selman
Treasurer

Cathy Balmer
Secretary

Directors:

  • Patsy Fimbres
  • Cheryl Laflen
  • Vern Mathern
  • Chris Rhodes
  • Christine Selman
  • Candace Sharkey

City of Mesa:
Abigail O’Brien
Mesa Sister Cities Liasion

Mayor, John Giles

Vice Mayor, 
Francisco Heredia

Councilmembers:

  • Jenn Duff
    Mark Freeman
    Alicia Goforth
    Julie Spilsbury
    Scott Somers 

March 8, 2024

Welcome! Bienvenidos! 欢迎

On behalf of Mesa Sister Cities, I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to our website! Mesa Sister Cities is more than an organization; it is a vibrant community that fosters understanding, friendship, and cooperation between cities worldwide. Our mission is to build bridges across borders, transcending geographical boundaries to create lasting connections between people from different corners of the globe. At the core of our efforts lies a directive: to advance peace by fostering mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation—one individual and one community at a time.

Mesa has five sister cities: Guaymas, Mexico, Burnaby, Canada, Caraz, Peru, Upper Hutt, New Zealand, and Kaiping, China. We deeply value our relationships with each of our sister cities. Mesa Sister Cities is a beacon of unity in a world often marked by differences. At its core, this program exemplifies the power of people-to-people connections, fostering mutual understanding, friendship, and collaboration across borders.

Through Mesa Sister Cities, we have the unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Cultural exchange programs open our minds to new perspectives, traditions, and ways of life, promoting tolerance and respect. Our sister cities’ relationships provide a platform for educational initiatives, including our Youth Exchange Program. These opportunities enhance our knowledge and contribute to developing a global perspective among the next generation. Embracing the principles of the sister cities program fosters a sense of global citizenship. It encourages us to think beyond our local borders and act as responsible global community members, addressing shared challenges and pursuing common goals.

We invite you to become a member of Mesa Sister Cities and join us in our commitment to citizen diplomacy. Your participation will make a meaningful impact on our shared mission. Together, let’s actively promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation—one individual, one community at a time.

Best wishes,

Chris Glover

Mesa Sister Cities in Action

25th Anniversary – Burnaby, BC. Canada

Mesa Sister Cities visited Burnaby in August 2023 and will host a delegation from Burnaby in April 2024 in celebration of the 25th  Anniversary of our relationship.