Founder's Statement

Forging Global Connections: A Founders' Commitment

As founders of the International Sister Schools Association, our journey began with a shared vision — to expose students and schools to the wonders of our homeland, New Zealand. Fueled by a deep-seated gratitude for the enriching experiences we've encountered and a desire to pay it forward, we launched this organisation with the aspiration to create pathways that were not there before.

Experiencing the Wonders

Having marveled at the incredible hospitality and warmth in our homelands, we felt compelled to extend this generosity by inviting students and schools from around the world to discover the magic of New Zealand. Our personal travels and encounters with diverse cultures have shown us the transformative power of educational experiences. We've witnessed how exposure to new environments, ideas, and perspectives can shape young minds and ignite a lifelong passion for learning.

Fostering Collaboration in a Multicultural World

In a rapidly evolving and multicultural world, we believe in the strength of collaboration. The International Sister Schools Association is our avenue to foster collaboration between schools, transcending geographical boundaries. We envision a network where schools from different corners of the globe come together to share knowledge, resources, and experiences. Through this collaboration, we aim to cultivate a global perspective among students and educators alike.

Creating Pathways and Opportunities

Our mission extends beyond geographical borders — we are here to create pathways and opportunities that may not have existed before. By facilitating connections between schools, we open doors for collaborative projects, cultural exchanges, and shared learning experiences. We want to be the bridge that connects students to a world of possibilities, broadening their horizons and providing them with valuable skills for an interconnected future.

A Commitment to the Future

At the International Sister Schools Association, we recognize the dynamic nature of education and the responsibility we bear to the students, schools, and communities we serve. Our commitment is to lay the foundation for a future where collaboration, understanding, and respect are the cornerstones of global citizenship.

Join Us on this Transformative Journey

Launching the International Sister Schools Association is more than an organisational endeavor; it is a heartfelt commitment to fostering a multicultural, collaborative, and interconnected world. We invite you to join us on this transformative journey as we strive to create a global community where schools collaborate, students thrive, and new pathways to knowledge and understanding emerge.

With sincere dedication,

Ben Neynens and Matt Harris

International Sister Schools Association Founders