Our Future Roads: The Power of Youth in Creating Safe Mobility

The “Our Future Roads” panel discussion will explore how the design of our roads, communities and policies impacts the safe mobility and wellbeing of young people. Featuring renowned road safety professionals, industry leaders and a youth moderator, we will delve into key topics such as the role of youth as changemakers in road safety, the impact of infrastructure on safe mobility and how city designs can better support vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.

This discussion aims to engage university-aged youth from various disciplines – including business, health sciences, urban planning, and engineering – in conversations that empower them to drive change in road safety and mobility. Whether you're a student or a professional, this is your opportunity to learn from experts, ask questions and contribute to creating safer communities.

Lunch will be provided for registered attendees and there will be a draw for exciting prizes – must be in attendance to claim a prize.

Guy Cormier, President & CEO, Desjardins Group

With more than 28 years at Desjardins, Mr. Cormier has been a champion of the co-operative model and is passionate about shared prosperity, youth empowerment, and building greener, more inclusive communities. He’ll kick off the event with a keynote that highlights Desjardins' commitment to road safety.

Dr. Linda Rothman, Associate Professor, School of Occupational and Public Health, Toronto Metropolitan University

Dr. Rothman’s research on child pedestrian safety and active transportation will frame the conversation about designing healthier, safer cities.

Aidan D’Souza, Council Co-Chair, Canadian Youth Road Safety Council

As a dedicated road safety advocate and student at Seneca Polytechnic, Aidan will lead the panel discussion, bringing his experience working with Canadian youth and international organizations.

Pamela Fuselli, President & CEO, Parachute

Ms Fuselli leads Canada’s national charity dedicated to injury prevention. Her insights into public policy and effective interventions will shed light on the collaborative efforts needed for change.

Valérie Lavoie, Executive Vice President, Property & Casualty Insurance, Desjardins Group

As a leader in the insurance industry, Ms Lavoie brings a unique perspective on corporate responsibility in road safety and how businesses can support youth as changemakers.

Dr. Raktim Mitra, Director and Professor, Co-Director of TransForm Research Laboratory, TMU

Dr. Mitra is an urban planner whose research focuses on transportation planning and healthy communities. He’ll provide insights on how city design and policies affect young road users.

• How city design and infrastructure support the safety and well-being of young road users.
• The role of policies in ensuring safe mobility for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.
• The importance of youth leadership in advocating for safer road systems and Vision Zero principles.
• How corporate and policy leaders can support youth-driven change in road safety.

• University students from faculties such as business, health sciences, urban planning and engineering.
• Alumni, community members and media groups.
• Youth advocates and organizations passionate about road safety.

This is your chance to learn from and engage with leading voices in road safety, discover how infrastructure and policy decisions impact your daily life, and contribute to making roads safer for all. Whether you’re passionate about youth advocacy, urban design or road safety, this event will provide valuable insights and opportunities for change.

In collaboration with

Host or Publisher Parachute