BRAMPTON, ON – In a major step toward amplifying youth voices and fostering leadership, the City of Brampton officially launched its 2026–2030 Youth Engagement Strategy today. Developed with input from over 1,200 young residents aged 14 to 29, the five-year roadmap lays out 22 actionable steps to build a more inclusive, responsive, and youth-driven city.
The Strategy is grounded in six core principles that prioritize diversity, trust, and youth empowerment — recognizing young people not just as beneficiaries, but as capable leaders and changemakers. It sets out six key priorities including increasing youth representation, removing barriers to employment, improving mental health supports, and promoting environmental sustainability.
With Council approval now secured, the City will begin rolling out a comprehensive work plan, including the formation of a new Brampton Youth Cabinet to keep youth leadership front and centre.
“Youth are the heartbeat of Brampton’s future. Our new Strategy is not just about planning for them, but planning with them,” said Mayor Patrick Brown. “It’s a reflection of our commitment to listen, collaborate, and invest in the dreams and voices of our next generation.”
Regional Councillor Gurpartap Singh Toor, Chair of the Youth Engagement portfolio, echoed the importance of the initiative: “Our youth bring bold ideas and a deep sense of community. This Strategy opens the door for them to lead, to be heard, and to help shape the direction of our city.”
Marlon Kallideen, the City’s Chief Administrative Officer, emphasized the collaborative spirit behind the Strategy: “Developed through extensive consultation with Brampton youth, this document gives us a clear, actionable direction. It’s a blueprint for building a stronger, more inclusive Brampton.”
Regional Councillor Paul Vicente added, “This Strategy recognizes that young people are not just our future — they are our present. It lays the foundation for deeper engagement and stronger partnerships between youth and civic leadership. I look forward to seeing the incredible impact this will have across our community.”
To stay connected, youth can now subscribe to CityConnect: Brampton Youth Edition at brampton.ca/youth, which features updates on events, job postings, perks, and ways to get involved.