Aug. 31, 2026

Forty Toronto high school students spent the summer exploring careers in emergency services, building leadership skills and gaining hands-on experience through the Youth Community Academy (YCA), a new paid experiential learning program delivered by Seneca Polytechnic and community partners.

The students’ achievements were celebrated at a graduation ceremony at Seneca's Newnham Campus in late August. The event was attended by proud family members and representatives from YCA partner organizations that worked together with Seneca to bring the initiative to life.

“The YCA experience has been one of the best memories I’ve personally had in my life,” said Sophie K., one of the students who took part in the program this summer. “I personally believe the program made me more disciplined and taught me valuable skills that I can take with me wherever. It also let me make many friends among my peers and the instructors, and create a lasting bond with them. This program gave me so much and I would 100 per cent do it all over again if given the choice.” 

Launched this summer through a partnership between Seneca, the City of Toronto, Toronto Fire Services, Toronto Police Service and Cadillac Fairview, the YCA was created to provide local high school students with a paid experiential learning opportunity focused on emergency services and community leadership.

Through classes, labs and experiential learning activities at Seneca's King and Newnham campuses, the participants gained exposure to the knowledge, skills and responsibilities required in both professions. The students also engaged in training opportunities at Toronto Fire Services and Toronto Police Service facilities, learning directly from professionals working in the field.

“The Youth Community Academy represents an investment in young people,” said Superintendent Donovan Locke, Toronto Police Service. “By combining education, mentorship, practical experience and meaningful pathways to future careers, we are helping participants build confidence, develop leadership skills and see themselves as contributors to safer, stronger communities. This initiative reflects our belief that effective policing is not only about responding to crime, itis also about creating opportunities, strengthening relationships and working alongside our partners to help young people succeed.”

“The YCA program can only be described as a success,” said Ricky Brooks, District Chief of Recruitment & Outreach, Toronto Fire Services. “Students were given the unique opportunity to learn about public and emergency services from experienced and dedicated professionals. They were exposed to the many important positions necessary to run and keep our city safe, as well as the required competencies to be successful in those roles. Toronto Fire Services was proud to be a part of the program, and we offer our congratulations to all 40 graduates.”

Beyond exploring career pathways, the participants gained practical skills that will benefit them in any future profession. The YCA also introduced students to pathways in public safety, including at Seneca through the Firefighter, Pre-Service Education and Training program and Police Foundations program.

Although the graduation ceremony marked the end of the YCA’s inaugural year, organizers believe its impact will be felt long after the summer. By bringing together education, government and public safety partners, the YCA aims to open doors to future opportunities while increasing awareness in the important role emergency service professionals play in serving Toronto communities.