About Us
MISSISSAUGA FRIENDHSIP ASSOCIATION
The Mississauga Friendship Association (MFA) facilitates the twinning between Mississauga and Kariya, Japan. Twinned with Kariya since 1981, the MFA organizes homestay visits for both Kariya and Mississauga delegates as well as planning Kariya Kita High School visits to local attractions and schools. We also promote Japanese culture through events, socials and meetings.
Mississauga and Kariya, Japan were officially twinned July 7th, 1981. The declaration states that “it is our wish to promote goodwill between both our cities and to enhance the international awareness of our citizens through the exchange of cultural, educational and sporting activities”. In 1993 the Mississauga Friendship Association (MFA) was formed to help facilitate the twinning and in particular, the homestay program. Since the initial agreement, over 500 people have visited Mississauga strengthening our friendship and making the twinning one of the most successful in Canada.
Kariya Park was officially opened on July 7, 1992 on the eleventh anniversary of our twin-city relationship with Kariya, Japan. The phase II opening of Kariya Park took place on July 7, 2001 during the 20th anniversary of the twinning. A special part of this celebration was the unveiling of the ‘Friendship Bell’. This bronze bell has images of iris flowers around the perimeter and an inscription that reads “By welcoming the new century this bell is produced as a symbol of everlasting friendship between the City of Mississauga and the City of Kariya”. Cast in Japan, the bell is rung on ceremonial occasions.
Kariya Park, Mississauga
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
SPONSORS
Thank you to our community partners and sponsors. Their support helps us to continue our friendship with Kariya, Japan and to offer many unique and quality experiences for both delegates and members.