A New Era of Global-to-Local Partnership
GEF is a platform that connects cities, communities, and institutions to build real global partnerships.
Global Engagement Week connects one U.S. city and one global city—alongside community and institutional partners—to build lasting, people-centered partnerships.
Launching with East Palo Alto, CA and Kolofo’ou, Tonga
Meet Our Cities
Two communities. One shared vision.
East Palo Alto, California, USA
A city rooted in resilience, leadership, and community-driven change, East Palo Alto sits at the heart of Silicon Valley while remaining deeply connected to its people.
Known for its strong network of community organizations, youth leadership, and civic engagement, the city represents what is possible when local voices shape the future.
Kolofo’ou District, tongatapu, tonga
Located in the capital of Tonga, Kolofo’ou is a cultural and civic center grounded in tradition, leadership, and community.
As part of a nation navigating global challenges and opportunities, it represents the strength of Pacific Island communities and the importance of global partnerships rooted in identity and place.
Together, these two communities reflect the power of connection—where local leadership meets global partnership to build something that lasts.
Global engagement in action
How GEF Brings It To Life
The Global Engagement Fund (GEF) serves as the coordinating engine behind Global Engagement Week—bringing together cities, partners, and institutions to design and deliver a cohesive experience. Throughout the week, city leaders, community organizations, and institutional partners will come together through site visits, roundtable discussions, and community-based gatherings designed to foster connection, shared learning, and long-term collaboration.
GEF’s role:
Designing the week’s structure across institutional visits, community engagement, and cultural exchange
Coordinating across partners—from local community organizations to global companies like Amazon, Cisco, and Meta
Aligning engagement areas including education, health, workforce development, and technology
Facilitating connections between city leadership, institutions, and community stakeholders
Ensuring continuity by laying the groundwork for partnerships that extend beyond the week
This is how global engagement moves from concept to coordinated action—grounded in community and built for long-term impact.