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Leaders from across Winnipeg to meet at CMU to develop solutions for youth at risk
Symposium to assemble diverse perspectives to address complex social challenges contributing to youth vulnerability in Winnipeg
Growing concerns about youth vulnerability, disengagement from school, and community safety have highlighted the need for thoughtful discussion and coordinated action. In response, Canadian Mennonite University (CMU), Massey College (at University of Toronto), and Inner City Youth Alive are jointly convening the Youth at Risk in Winnipeg Symposium on October 17, 2026 to foster informed dialogue, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and generate solutions to improve outcomes for at-risk youth in Winnipeg.
Reflecting a unique collaboration between higher education, public policy, and community-based youth work, this symposium highlights the importance of bringing diverse perspectives together to address complex social challenges. It will be especially valuable for teachers and educators, social workers, counsellors, non-profit and community leaders, direct service providers, government and policy professionals, school administrators, researchers, and others engaged in supporting youth and strengthening communities. Registration is free, with a nominal charge for the noon meal.
"Universities have a responsibility to help address the challenges facing our communities," said Dr. Cheryl Pauls, President of CMU. "It's up to all of us to create conditions so that every young person has the opportunity to flourish. Convening conversations like this is one way to help strengthen the supports, relationships, and opportunities that enable young people to realize their potential and contribute to our communities."
Beyond presentations and panel discussions, participants will be asked to identify practical policy recommendations and community-based solutions that can strengthen support for vulnerable youth. The goal is not simply to discuss challenges, but to develop actionable ideas that can inform future collaborations, programs, and public policy.
"When it comes to complex social issues, good intentions are not enough," said Tom Axworthy, Public Policy Chair at Massey College, University of Toronto. "Complex problems cannot be solved by any one sector acting alone. We need thoughtful public policy, informed discussion, and a willingness to examine what is working and what is not. This symposium is designed to move those conversations forward."
The event will feature keynote presentations from former Winnipeg Police Service Chief Devon Clunis, who will speak on public safety and youth risk factors, and education leader Dr. John Wiens, Dean Emeritus of Education at the University of Manitoba, who will address the role of education in supporting vulnerable youth. Participants will also hear from Hon. Renée Cable, Manitoba's Minister of Advanced Education and Training, during a luncheon address.
For Kent Dueck, Founder of Inner City Youth Alive, the symposium builds on decades of experience supporting young people and families in Winnipeg's inner city.
"For nearly 40 years, we've walked alongside young people who face barriers that many Winnipeggers never see," said Kent Dueck, Founder of Inner City Youth Alive. "Behind every youth statistic is a young person with hopes, gifts, and untapped potential. Our experience has shown that when young people have trusted relationships, meaningful opportunities, and consistent support, remarkable things can happen. This event is an opportunity to explore how those supports can become more accessible to the youth who need them most."
Bringing together voices from education, social services, government, law enforcement, and the non-profit sector, the symposium aims to spark new collaborations and practical solutions for Winnipeg's young people. Organizers hope the event will serve as a catalyst for ongoing action, stronger community connections, and a renewed commitment to ensuring every youth has the support they need to succeed.
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