WQBQ Talk Track: Building Global Connections Through the Mount Dora Sister Cities Association

WQBQ Talk Track: Building Global Connections Through the Mount Dora Sister Cities Association

The Chamber, The “Q,” and You on WQBQ is a free on-air opportunity for Chamber members and local organizations to share upcoming events, highlight their mission, and connect directly with the Mount Dora community.

Mount Dora may be a small town in Central Florida, but its reach extends all the way to Forres, Scotland — thanks to the long-standing partnership championed by the Mount Dora Sister Cities Association (MDSCA).

During a recent episode of The Chamber, The “Q,” and You on WQBQ, James Floyd sat down with Eve Passmore and Taryn Souders, leaders of the MDSCA, to explore the history, mission, and community impact of this unique international partnership.

Since formally linking with Forres, a historic town located on the Moray coast of northern Scotland, in 1990, Mount Dora has fostered rich cultural and educational exchanges designed to promote understanding and friendship between the two cities. Over the decades, The Sister Cities Association has encouraged and facilitated person-to-person contact through travel, student exchanges, cultural celebrations, and collaborative community programs that highlight both Scottish and Floridian traditions.

Forres, known for its coastal beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant community life, serves as Mount Dora’s sister city, while Mount Dora brings forward the opportunity for residents here to experience global culture firsthand. The organization’s volunteers work year-round to support activities that connect people from both sides of the Atlantic, from hosting visitors to participating in international gatherings and local cultural events.

Eve and Taryn shared that the connection with Forres goes beyond formal agreements — it’s a living relationship built on shared experiences, curiosity about world cultures, and a commitment to community engagement. They talked about how this relationship strengthens Mount Dora’s own identity, broadens cultural awareness, and creates opportunities for education and friendship that ripple throughout the community.

The conversation also touched on how the MDSCA collaborates with local organizations, including Chamber members, to support cultural programming, travel opportunities, and educational exchanges that make global connections feel personal and impactful.

Being part of the Chamber helps the Sister Cities Association expand its visibility, engage more volunteers and partners, and enhance its mission of bringing the world closer to Mount Dora residents and visitors alike.

The Mount Dora Sister Cities Association is currently accepting applications for its upcoming Travel Scholarship, which will send a local representative to Forres, Scotland within the next 12–18 months. The program offers a unique opportunity to experience Mount Dora’s sister city firsthand while serving as an ambassador for our community abroad. Interest is already strong, with two applications submitted so far. Applicants must be current MDSCA members in good standing to be considered. Those interested can learn more and apply through the Association’s website.