BRAMPTON – Environmental leadership, community stewardship and youth engagement took centre stage as the City of Brampton celebrated its 2026 Grow Green Festival and Awards Ceremony, recognizing local individuals, organizations and businesses that are helping create a greener, healthier and more sustainable community.
Held at Jim Archdekin Recreation Centre in recognition of World Environment Day, the event brought together residents, environmental advocates, community organizations, youth groups and sustainability partners for a day of celebration, education and environmental action. The festival highlighted the important contributions being made across the city to address climate change, protect natural resources and promote sustainable living.
A key feature of the event was the presentation of the 2026 Grow Green Awards, which recognize outstanding environmental leadership and commitment to sustainability in Brampton. This year’s recipients represented a diverse range of environmental initiatives, from climate action and conservation to community education and youth leadership.
Julius Lindsay received the Climate Change Award in the Individual category for his dedication to environmental sustainability and climate action. Jeya Thavachandren was honoured with the Stewardship Award in the Individual category, while The Food Quotient received the Stewardship Award in the Business and Organization category. Human Nature Projects Canada was recognized with the Environmental Youth Award for inspiring young people to become environmental leaders, and Pauline Thornham received the prestigious Environmental Legacy Award for her long-standing contributions to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
The 2026 theme, “Celebrating Present and Future Environmental Champions,” highlighted the importance of recognizing both current environmental leaders and the next generation of changemakers who will help shape a more sustainable future for Brampton.
Throughout the festival, residents had the opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on activities and educational experiences designed to promote environmental awareness and encourage community involvement. Visitors explored exhibitor booths, attended interactive demonstrations and connected with local organizations working to protect and enhance Brampton’s natural environment.
Popular activities included a community clothing swap organized by Reconnect Brampton, invasive plant identification sessions and environmental demonstrations led by Ontario Streams, a Community Climate Mixer hosted by the Community Climate Council, and a native plant giveaway that encouraged residents to support local biodiversity in their own gardens and neighbourhoods.
Youth engagement was a major focus of this year’s event, providing young residents with opportunities to learn about environmental issues, connect with community organizations and discover ways they can contribute to a more sustainable city. Organizers emphasized the importance of empowering youth to become future environmental leaders and active participants in climate action initiatives.
The Grow Green Festival continues to support the City of Brampton’s Grow Green Environmental Master Plan, which outlines a long-term vision for environmental sustainability, climate resilience and responsible stewardship of natural resources. By celebrating local environmental champions and creating opportunities for residents to learn, collaborate and take action, the event strengthens Brampton’s commitment to building a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Mayor Patrick Brown praised the award recipients and participants for their dedication to environmental stewardship, noting that leadership can take many forms, including climate action, conservation, community education and volunteerism. He emphasized that the city is proud to recognize the residents, businesses, organizations and youth whose efforts are helping make Brampton a greener, healthier and more resilient community.
The Grow Green Festival and Awards Ceremony was supported by community partners and sponsors, including Toronto Pearson and CN, whose contributions helped make the celebration of environmental excellence possible.