On October 3, LEF and the City of Toronto hosted the 2026 West District Safety Table Forum: Rise Together – Community Leaders Building a Safer Future, bringing together approximately 140 community members, youth, organizations and local leaders to connect, share ideas and explore ways to build safer, more inclusive communities.
The forum opened with a series of cultural acknowledgements and reflections that grounded the day in shared responsibility, reconciliation and community. Vivian Roy, an Indigenous Elder from Wikwemikong, led a smudging ceremony and prayer, while MCs Kiyana Johnston Palmer and Sydanie Moon shared Indigenous and African ancestral acknowledgements that highlighted the importance of honouring history, learning from one another and turning acknowledgement into meaningful action.
A youth-facilitated panel featuring keynote panelist Destin Bujang and fellow panelists Holly Roy and Timiro Aganeh, moderated by local youth – Kismat Martins, Kahmoniee Graham, Krillan Homer, Kaiden Joseph – explored the importance of creating opportunities for young people as a key strategy for violence prevention. Panelists discussed the value of mentorship, education and community engagement, as well as the role social media can play in connecting with youth and promoting safer communities.
One key message from the discussion was the importance of embracing opportunities and using personal experiences, knowledge and success to uplift others. Panelists encouraged young people to pursue pathways such as education, employment and mentorship, and to give back to their communities along the way. Holly Roy also reminded participants that you do not have to be Indigenous to stand alongside and advocate for Indigenous voices. Every young person deserves a sense of belonging, community and safety, a message that resonated throughout the day.
Participants also took a moment to honour those impacted by gun violence before sharing lunch and enjoying a performance by Diversity Dance Group, a group of young women who use dance to create space for expression, connection and belonging. Participants also had the opportunity to take part in a mental wellness breakout, supported by Sankofa and MK Holistic, which offered space to share personal experiences and practise breathing and grounding exercises.
The afternoon featured three interactive breakout discussions: Safety Starts With Us, Building Resilience for Ourselves, and Turning Ideas Into Action. Through meaningful conversation and collaboration, participants shared ideas, experiences and practical approaches to strengthening safety and well-being in their communities.
Beyond discussion, the forum was designed to help residents access practical skills, resources and opportunities to strengthen their communities. Participants connected with Community Development Officers, TCHC Community Services Coordinators, housing staff and Crime Prevention Officers while learning about grant opportunities, Safety Networks and community supports. These connections can grow into resident-led projects, future training opportunities and ongoing involvement in local Safety Networks.
After the breakout rooms, the day began to wind down with a community giveaway, including four bicycles generously donated by Thermo Fisher. Then all the attendees gathered around a newly planted tree to reflect on what they had begun together. The tree will remain a living reminder that the forum was a beginning, and that lasting change depends on how we nurture these commitments together.
Thank you to everyone who participated, shared their perspectives and helped make the forum a meaningful day of learning, connection and action. Together, we continue to build stronger, safer communities where everyone can thrive.
Interested in getting involved? Join a Safety Table and learn more at: https://lefca.org/lef-in-the-community/safety-tables
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