18th Annual Ripple Effect Youth Forum
Durham Regional Police Service’s (DRPS) Youth in Policing (YIP) program hosted its 18th Annual Ripple Effect Youth Forum on July 24, 2025.
The event brought together more than 400 youth from across Ontario to Empower the Leaders of Tomorrow and foster collaboration between law enforcement and the next generation of changemakers.
DRPS Chief Peter Moreira kicked-off the day with an inspiring message on the importance of connection, learning, and leadership. Solicitor General Michael Kerzner expressed his gratitude for everyone’s contributions and emphasized the importance of youth engagement in community safety. Minister of Children, Community and Social Services Michael Parsa shared a video message highlighting the value of youth voices in shaping inclusive communities.
The forum featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the forefront. First up was youth mentor and former DRPS YIP Coordinator Oscar Li, who shared his journey from organizing past Ripple Effect Forums to mentoring more than 800 youth and co-founding a nonprofit that has helped charities generate more than $100 million in revenue. Next was leadership expert and best-selling author Rick Denley, who inspired attendees with stories of resilience, reinvention, and giving back – drawing from his experience in corporate leadership, philanthropy, and amateur boxing for cancer research.
A highlight of the day was the DRPS panel, featuring Cst. Hannah Elkington (joined by her K9 partner PSD Kaos), Cst. Matt Janes, Cst. Rui Ferreira, and Aux. Cst. Glen Harper, who offered behind-the-scenes insights into their roles and led a Q&A with the crowd.
Thank you to the 15 DRPS Members, Ministry Staff and 13 public safety partners who participated, including:
- Belleville Police Service
- Cornwall Police Service
- Gananoque Police Service
- Guelph Police Service
- Halton Regional Police
- Hamilton Police Service
- Kingston Police
- North Bay Police Service
- Ontario Provincial Police
- Owen Sound Police Service
- Smith Falls Police Service
- Toronto Police Service
- Waterloo Regional Police Service
Thanks to the generous support of our event sponsors, Kernels, Jack Astor’s, Scaddabush, Domino’s Pizza, and Flying Squirrel, all youth participants enjoyed refreshments and giveaways.
Each year, the Ripple Effect Youth Forum serves as a unique opportunity for youth to celebrate leadership, collaboration, and empowerment. YIP is proud to host events for future leaders and ambassadors of change. The program continues to extend to more youth and people from our community.
Applications for the 2025-26 YIP Winter Initiative are currently open and will close on
August 25, 2025 at 4:00pm. Visit www.drps.ca/yip or contact youthinpolicing@drps.ca for more information.