DRPS' Ripple Effect Youth Forum Encourages Youth to Redefine Success

The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Youth in Policing (YIP) Initiative proudly hosted its annual Ripple Effect Youth Forum on July 23, 2026, welcoming more than 360 youth from across Ontario for a day of leadership, inspiration, and personal development. The event was particularly significant as YIP celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

This year's theme, "Redefining Success," encouraged participants to look beyond conventional definitions of achievement and consider how resilience, personal growth, community impact, and meaningful relationships contribute to a successful and fulfilling life.

The morning began with remarks from MPP and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services Lorne Coe, followed by DRPS Deputy Chief Chirag Bhatt.

"Success is not defined by a title, a job, or a single achievement," said Deputy Chief Bhatt. "It is reflected in how we overcome challenges, support others, and make a positive difference in our communities."

The forum featured keynote speaker Zechariah Thomas, founder of SWIFT Hockey, who shared his journey of perseverance, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Drawing on his experiences, Zechariah challenged attendees to embrace obstacles as opportunities, remain resilient through adversity, and define success on their own terms while creating positive change in their communities.

Throughout the day, participants took part in student- and officer-led workshops, networking opportunities, and leadership activities alongside police officers, community partners, and professionals from various sectors. The sessions encouraged youth to build meaningful connections, develop leadership skills, and explore future educational and career pathways while strengthening relationships between young people and law enforcement.

As YIP celebrates its 20th anniversary, the Ripple Effect Youth Forum continues to be a cornerstone of the program. Through mentorship, education, and community involvement, the forum has empowered thousands of youth with the confidence, skills, and inspiration to become leaders in their schools, workplaces, and communities.

The DRPS also thanks the YIP students and leaders whose dedication and planning helped make this year's event a success, as well as the police services that attended with their own YIP participants, including Belleville, Brantford, Cornwall, Gananoque, Guelph, Halton Regional, Hamilton, Ontario Provincial Police, Owen Sound, Smiths Falls, Toronto, and Waterloo Regional.

For more information about the YIP program, visit DRPS Youth in Policing or follow @drps_yip on social media.