Every summer, Mongolians around the world gather to celebrate Naadam, Mongolia’s most cherished national festival. While the largest celebrations take place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolian communities across the globe proudly continue the tradition—including here in Colorado. Last weekend, hundreds of members of Colorado’s Mongolian community, along with friends...
Behind every sister city relationship is a dedicated group of volunteers working to keep that international connection active, relevant, and meaningful over time. While every committee develops its own rhythm, strong committees often: * maintain ongoing communication with their partner city * organize cultural, educational, and public programs * support student, professional, and...
Selam Gebrekidan, from Boston and founder of the Aksum Marathon nonprofit, spoke to the DSCI Axum Committee in March 2025 about supporting an annual run and marathon in Axum. In memory of her brother, who died during the conflict, Selam sought ways to engage the youth of Axum, including organizing...
Dear Friends - Both personally and on behalf of the Ulaanbaatar Denver Sister Cities Committee and Denver Sister Cities International, I want to thank all of you for joining us for our April 1st gathering celebrating Mongolia, our long relationship with Nomadic Expeditions, and the many years of exchanges between Mongolia...
In October 2025, one of Denver Sister Cities International’s valued partners in Axum faced another devastating setback. A fire at Aksum University College of Health Sciences (CHS) and Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (AKU Hospital) caused significant damage to facilities, equipment, and critical care infrastructure—further straining a healthcare system already...
This May, a delegation from Dundgovi Province in Mongolia will travel to Colorado—continuing a relationship that spans more than three decades and reflects one of the most enduring international partnerships in the American West. Coordinated on the U.S. side by Jim Wagenlander, Chair of the Ulaanbaatar–Denver Sister...
For years, members of our community have visited schools, clubs, and residential facilities pulling out memorabilia from a “City in a suitcase” showcasing the historical and cultural highlights of our partner cities. In April, Denver Sister Cities Axum committee members, Janet Lee, Maria Halloran, and Gayle Stallings presented at Brookdale...