In September 2024, a delegation of eight women, all part of AGEP-V (La Asociación gremial de empresarias y profesionales) a business networking organization in the Viña del Mar/Valparaiso region, visited Sausalito for two weeks. This marked our 12th exchange with this business women’s group since 2011. Our focus for this sister city program has been centered around an empowerment and coaching program sharing American business theories, ideas to overcome challenges and best practices for small business owners.

During the 2024 visit an array of activities and events took place in Sausalito, starting with “En Las Manos de Violeta.” This was a full exhibit they brought with them, featuring eight artists from AGEP. The exhibition was inspired by Violeta Parra, a beloved singer, songwriter, artist and activist. Parra was instrumental in reviving interest in indigenous cultures of Chile. Their exhibit, which opened first in Viña del Mar, included works of painting, embroidery, felting, textiles and eco printing. Here in Sausalito, the exhibit was open to the public for the duration of the two-week visit. After the women returned to Chile, they held the exhibit several more times throughout the Viña/Valparaiso area.

In addition to the Parra exhibit, Britania Salinas (Mitty), one of the delegates, was invited to participate in “Paint Sausalito”, a plein aire competition sponsored by the Sausalito Center for the Arts.

These accomplished businesswomen visited Sausalito city officials and business owners, learning ways Sausalito and its citizens met with post-pandemic challenges. We showed them how we created collaborations between the arts, culture, education and entrepreneurship, and shared our plans for facing challenges in the future. This visit, the programs and accommodations were all planned by the Viña del Mar Operations Council (VDM Ops Council) of the Sausalito Sister Cities.

Delegates from Viña del Mar in 2024 Exchange

The Sausalito–Viña del Mar sister city relationship runs deep. Now, we’re bringing that bond to life right in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The Viña del Mar Stairs project will transform the Excelsior Stairs into a vibrant public mural celebrating our two cities’ enduring connection. Read more about the project and how you can help make it happen →