Visiting the Borderlands: An Explore Journey to Nogales, AZ & Sonora

Earlier this month, our Explore program embarked on a powerful two-day journey to the twin cities of Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora. Our trip began with a warm welcome at Zula’s Restaurant, where we connected with the Port Authority board to discuss cross-border collaboration and trade.

We toured a cold storage facility with Guillermo Valencia, offering insights into the binational agricultural economy. A vibrant mural tour led by artist Priscilla “Nefftys” Rodriguez immersed us in the region’s rich cultural expression. At the historic courthouse, Francisco Padilla and Maya Donnely shared educational challenges and opportunities in border communities, followed by a discussion on downtown arts revitalization with Evan Kory at the Wittner Museum.

We also had the opportunity to learn from Garret Workman from the South 32 Mine to learn about how they are integrating into the community and the unique technology being used to minimize the impacts on the environment and surrounding community. We concluded our first day over dinner at the iconic La Roca, reflecting on the powerful stories and partnerships shaping the region.

Day two began with a border crossing into Nogales, Sonora, where we met with Eleazar Coronado and had the honor of engaging with Mayor Juan Francisco. Our group toured a maquiladora to better understand the economic engine driving much of the city’s employment, and learned about regional industry support through ARINAC. A visit to ARSOBO highlighted the incredible work of binational health and mobility efforts, and we deepened our understanding of community development through the lens of FESAC.

Over lunch at La Llorona, we shared reflections on how philanthropy and industry intersect at the border. Our trip concluded with an emotional and eye-opening visit to the San Juan Bosco Shelter, where we witnessed firsthand the resilience and humanity of migrants and asylum seekers.

This Explore trip exemplified our program themes of equity, adaptability, and interconnectedness. The stories we heard and the leaders we met demonstrated how deeply intertwined our communities are, and how solutions at the border must consider the full spectrum of social, economic, and cultural realities.
From trade and education to art and humanitarian aid, the Nogales region is a microcosm of the complex challenges and opportunities that define our time. As we return to our respective roles and communities, we carry with us not just new knowledge, but renewed purpose to lead with empathy, agility, and a commitment to shared progress.

Big thank you to all of our Nogales partners who made our trip such a success!