Peel Regional Police Celebrates 55 Graduates of the 2026 Youth in Policing Initiative
Region of Peel – Peel Regional Police is celebrating the successful completion of the 2026 Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI), recognizing 55 youth participants and 14 team leads who completed the eight-week summer employment and leadership development program.
Since launching in 2009 with just 10 participants, YIPI has grown into one of Peel Regional Police's flagship youth engagement programs, providing opportunities to nearly 300 young people.
Over the past eight weeks, participants worked alongside Peel Regional Police officers and civilian members, contributed to community projects, explored careers in policing, public safety and public service, and developed leadership and workplace skills through hands-on learning experiences.
A key milestone for the 2026 program was the introduction of a funded dual-credit opportunity through Sheridan College. Participants earned both secondary and post-secondary credits, combining academic achievement with practical workplace experience.
Funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and the Peel Police Service Board, YIPI reflects Peel Regional Police's ongoing commitment to youth engagement and investing in the next generation of community leaders. By creating inclusive and meaningful employment opportunities, the program helps build stronger relationships between youth and police while contributing to safer communities.
The program's long-term impact can be seen throughout Peel Regional Police. Many members, including Chief Nishan Duraiappah, participated in YIPI as students before pursuing careers in policing, demonstrating the lasting influence the program can have on young people as they explore future pathways in public service.
The graduation ceremony brought together participants, families, community partners, elected officials, educational leaders and members of Peel Regional Police to celebrate the achievements of the 2026 cohort and their contributions throughout the summer.
For more information about the YIPI program, please visit our website.
QUICK FACTS
- The 2026 Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI) welcomed 55 youth participants and 14 team leads.
- More than 300 young people have participated in the YIPI program since its launch in 2009
- Participants completed an eight-week paid summer employment program from July 2 to August 21.
QUOTE
“The Youth in Policing Initiative is an investment in young people and in the future of our community. It gives youth an opportunity to see policing and public service from the inside, develop skills and confidence, and build relationships that can last well beyond the summer. The Board is proud to support this program and, most importantly, proud of the 55 young people graduating this year. I congratulate each of them and look forward to seeing where they take this experience next.”
— Omar Khan, Vice-Chair, Peel Police Service Board
““The Youth in Policing Initiative continues to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to develop skills and build confidence. As someone who once participated in this program as a student, I have seen firsthand the impact it can have on a young person's future. This year's participants demonstrated a commitment to leadership and community service and we are proud of everything they have accomplished.”
— Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police
“Today, we celebrate the accomplishments of an exceptional group of young people who embraced every opportunity to learn, lead and grow through the Youth in Policing Initiative. Over the past eight weeks, they have built new skills, discovered new strengths and gained valuable experience that will help shape their futures. Sheridan is proud to partner with Peel Regional Police on a program that helps young people see what is possible for themselves and inspires them to pursue their goals with confidence. We look forward to cheering them on as they take their next steps."
— Dr. Cindy Gouveia, President and Vice Chancellor, Sheridan College
SOCIAL MEDIA
MEDIA CONTACT
Email: media.relations@peelpolice.ca
Phone: 905-453-2121, ext. 4027
N/R: 26-156
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