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Beautiful aerial view of downtown Vancouver skyline, British Columbia, Canada at sunset

Municipalities across British Columbia came together on September 3–4, 2025, for a two-day conference in Vancouver on countering online harms and protecting social cohesion. Organized under the Strong Cities–North America initiative, the event brought together elected officials, community leaders, academics, and practitioners to examine the growing challenges of hate, disinformation, and digital threats at the local level.The Foundation for a Path Forward (F4PF) played a central role in shaping the discussion throughout the conference. On the first day, F4PF Co-Founder Tariq Tyab joined researchers and academics to highlight the ways in which online conspiracy narratives and gendered forms of abuse are particularly harmful to marginalized communities in British Columbia. His contribution grounded the conversation in the lived realities of municipalities, emphasizing both the risks and the opportunities for community resilience.Later that morning, F4PF Co-Founder Yusuf Siraj presented findings from the Centre for Civic Governance’s report, “Inclusive Networking &amp; Support for Public Officials in Rural Environments: Addressing Systemic Racism and Online Harms in Local Governance across BC.” His presentation shed light on how local officials, particularly in smaller and rural municipalities, are uniquely vulnerable to targeted online abuse. By outlining practical recommendations, he provided municipal leaders with tools to better protect themselves and their communities.The Foundation’s leadership continued as Yusuf Siraj moderated a conversation with municipal leaders from across British Columbia, including representatives from New Westminster, Nelson, and Courtenay. This session gave city officials the chance to candidly share their perspectives on the state of online harms in their communities, illustrating the varying impacts across urban and rural contexts. By guiding the dialogue, F4PF ensured that municipal voices remained central to the conversation and that practical lessons from different regions were elevated.Across both days of the conference, the contributions of the Foundation for a Path Forward emphasized the importance of equipping municipalities with the knowledge, networks, and confidence to respond to online harms. By presenting research, moderating critical discussions, and framing local challenges in a way that resonated with participants, F4PF reinforced its role as a bridge between community-based expertise and policy-level initiatives. The conference ultimately underscored that tackling online threats to social cohesion requires not only international cooperation but also the leadership and active engagement of organizations rooted in the communities most affected—an approach that the Foundation for a Path Forward exemplified throughout the event.

Foundation Speaks at the Strong Cities Network Conference in Vancouver

<figure id="figure-7rklldz1ewmf10gaan" class=""><img id="7rklldz1ewmf10gaan" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/132eZXeihVriGcZVtgwcjGbv0uIRVRdCY1OGj9NLytkYNZK0u7a10rfuG4SB4Mig.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/132eZXeihVriGcZVtgwcjGbv0uIRVRdCY1OGj9NLytkYNZK0u7a10rfuG4SB4Mig.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined% 100%;"></figure>Foundation for a Path Forward joined the BC Muslim Association and KidsPlay Foundation to host the Guns, Drugs, and Gangs Public Safety Forum at Surrey Jamea Masjid. Supported by SACH BC, Moving Forward Family Services, and Penny Appeal Canada, the forum drew more than 500 youth, parents, and community leaders to confront the urgent crises of gang violence and the toxic drug epidemic threatening Surrey’s young people.<figure id="figure-eur2w5pu1mmf1214yu"><img id="eur2w5pu1mmf1214yu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/214gjRTpznwl1mdgMpxht4Vuf9ApxGCSWJW8PyqU9jOJ4U17FqCtWk2MVfxtgbZ8.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 10%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="10%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/214gjRTpznwl1mdgMpxht4Vuf9ApxGCSWJW8PyqU9jOJ4U17FqCtWk2MVfxtgbZ8.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 10%;"></figure>The program brought together speakers whose lived experiences and professional expertise gave weight and urgency to the conversation. Yusef-Andre Wiley, a former Blood gang member from Los Angeles, shared his powerful journey from incarceration to becoming a respected motivational speaker and community mentor. His testimony illustrated both the dangers of early recruitment into gangs and the possibility of redemption when communities rally to support youth.<figure id="figure-j1czi8ulebmflficzs"><img id="j1czi8ulebmflficzs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1beZrFlw1xkvdTMYBR0g4c7pQYTeRpwxLC583pOEIfqc722xBwoeh30kdcJX50XX.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1beZrFlw1xkvdTMYBR0g4c7pQYTeRpwxLC583pOEIfqc722xBwoeh30kdcJX50XX.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Maulana Osama Raja, Imam at the BCMA Surrey Delta Masjid, provided a faith-based perspective on resilience and responsibility, urging Muslim youth and families to anchor themselves in values that protect against exploitation. His leadership reinforced the role of spiritual guidance in countering destructive influences.<figure id="figure-1navvqcn8mflfj59d"><img id="1navvqcn8mflfj59d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24yZ3rkmvpRkoLtUoykWqwoeqDI2p96JLcufMbU8vyZ6SexR4jFBkTm8yU9uTDo9.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24yZ3rkmvpRkoLtUoykWqwoeqDI2p96JLcufMbU8vyZ6SexR4jFBkTm8yU9uTDo9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 0%;"></figure>Kal Dosanjh, founder of KidsPlay and a Vancouver Police Department detective, built on this message by emphasizing how prevention, mentorship, and youth engagement programs can offer alternatives to gang life. Their combined voices highlighted how education, mentorship, and awareness must work hand in hand.<figure id="figure-cbkt982k6mf122yqu" class=""><img id="cbkt982k6mf122yqu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23SJyEbAhFTUpR27T3Y8UkPQzIr8D8zYcYAwKNWZ6O47LBoQkXLxZQMEXGqNG9LO.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="15%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23SJyEbAhFTUpR27T3Y8UkPQzIr8D8zYcYAwKNWZ6O47LBoQkXLxZQMEXGqNG9LO.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 15%;"></figure>Gary Bains of KidsPlay Foundation drew on his financial literacy background to highlight how gangs prey on young people’s desire for fast money. By teaching youth how to manage finances responsibly and recognize manipulative tactics, he demonstrated how practical education can be a frontline defense against recruitment.<figure id="figure-kyv9zpijdmflfom38"><img id="kyv9zpijdmflfom38" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2avGdorg2ZjX0KBJlra4S9tncez4xUyxA8QpfoattnRhCy2hYAf8EZSrGdgryLgl.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 40% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="40%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2avGdorg2ZjX0KBJlra4S9tncez4xUyxA8QpfoattnRhCy2hYAf8EZSrGdgryLgl.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 40% 20%;"></figure>Surrey City Councillor and Crime Stoppers Executive Director Linda Annis offered a municipal and public safety perspective, stressing the importance of civic leadership and community-driven initiatives in disrupting recruitment pipelines.<figure id="figure-kwrogxerdjmflfnygb"><img id="kwrogxerdjmflfnygb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37p8V492X0yvmNVG14LhLoERMCkadlcVeuOs5wt09pBJdGRJFthyjUrqEQ4O4fCr.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37p8V492X0yvmNVG14LhLoERMCkadlcVeuOs5wt09pBJdGRJFthyjUrqEQ4O4fCr.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 100%;"></figure>Mufti Mohamed Mouadh added further depth by underscoring the moral and ethical imperatives of community vigilance, linking spiritual values to practical prevention strategies. Together with other speakers, they presented families with tools to recognize recruitment tactics and resources to intervene early.<figure id="figure-n47levhvngmfpoksse"><img id="n47levhvngmfpoksse" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/308pjY0R2SkwMeqyTBpJqO12731QESgOpRIP2qrlDgksX2dkxIbY9DxBBoF07x6s.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="50%" data-positionY="20%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>MLA Bryan Tepper contributed a provincial policy perspective, drawing on his role in shaping community safety and public health initiatives to highlight how government must align with grassroots partners to address the dual crises of gangs and toxic drugs. Together with other speakers, they presented families with tools to recognize recruitment tactics and resources to intervene early.<figure id="figure-zk3v9lozidmf12430h"><img id="zk3v9lozidmf12430h" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32tizAhs5FHLmh5AP7wtFOHrLzgA5jFTCQg33l3mZqwnvwPmn7gk69SC7B9Mmh9q.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 90%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="90%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32tizAhs5FHLmh5AP7wtFOHrLzgA5jFTCQg33l3mZqwnvwPmn7gk69SC7B9Mmh9q.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 90%;"></figure>Statistics underscored the urgency of their message: gang-related homicides now account for nearly half of all murders in B.C., and toxic drugs remain the leading cause of death for British Columbians aged 10–59. Children as young as 10 are being groomed online, with recruiters exploiting vulnerabilities, peer pressure, and even romantic manipulation.<figure id="figure-mogev6552tmf124p9c"><img id="mogev6552tmf124p9c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aTgXEZR67k2syLXDHlJyUxEVi331i02QF7VXk8XkEQYCDyMjRWgzUFOxthN8zrKs.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aTgXEZR67k2syLXDHlJyUxEVi331i02QF7VXk8XkEQYCDyMjRWgzUFOxthN8zrKs.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>By convening religious leaders, survivors, educators, and grassroots organizations, the forum offered more than warnings—it created a roadmap for prevention. Families left with tools to spot recruitment tactics, resources for intervention, and the assurance that their community stands united in safeguarding the next generation.<figure id="figure-es2ovttlqmf1257e2"><img id="es2ovttlqmf1257e2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30ftmPBM2dovUALTfLStryuyspKk4IYdr7YekmwLOi7g4tP7NjiWcLI9Jnnyq1io.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30ftmPBM2dovUALTfLStryuyspKk4IYdr7YekmwLOi7g4tP7NjiWcLI9Jnnyq1io.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The Foundation for a Path Forward sees this forum as a turning point. By fostering collaboration across faiths and sectors, the event showed that communities need not accept the normalization of gangs and drugs. Together, Surrey took a stand to reclaim its neighborhoods and protect its youth.

Foundation Hosts the Second Guns, Drugs, and Gangs Public Safety Forum in Surrey

On June 28, 2025, the Foundation for a Path Forward and Coding in Colour hosted the second session of the Transformative AI training series — a free, hands-on program designed to help nonprofit staff, community leaders, and frontline professionals understand and harness the power of AI in their day-to-day work.<figure id="figure-h6evcd3unbmcj1i1xs"><img id="h6evcd3unbmcj1i1xs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6rmgr3tqdmFat14hbEicVvAQfXBsBapkaWk9LAl9VUqsmiCJpGvR5HKJFF35X5Hc.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Over the two-hour online training, participants explored how to use tools like ChatGPT to write faster, plan smarter, and focus more deeply on their mission. With real-life demos, accessible language, and no technical background required, the session offered a welcoming space for professionals to learn how AI can work for them — not against them.Led by instructors Yusuf Siraj and Sabrina Smai, the session emphasized practical, responsible, and values-based uses of AI. The training helped demystify AI’s role in nonprofits, highlighting real-world applications in program management, communication, and decision-making.Building on the success of the first session held earlier in June, this second session showed continued interest across sectors in building future-ready digital skills — especially in organizations that serve racialized and equity-seeking communities.As AI becomes more embedded in the tools we use daily, the Transformative AI program ensures that those advancing justice, inclusion, and equity aren’t left behind.More sessions and in-depth learning options are on the horizon as the Foundation works to support changemakers who want to lead in an AI-powered world — thoughtfully, ethically, and with impact.

Foundation's Second Transformative AI Training for Nonprofit Leaders to Build Tech Confidence and Capacity

On June 14, 2025, Foundation for a Path Forward and Coding in Colour successfully hosted the inaugural Transformative AI professional development session—a groundbreaking free training designed for nonprofit professionals, community leaders, and frontline staff ready to navigate and lead in an AI-powered world.<figure id="figure-8vk9k9vfkmcanxdqf"><img id="8vk9k9vfkmcanxdqf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aIlRks9x6USAv7kwPYW9lAxhwmLW9tmEIVKM034PblhQ8FkrAH3R27zE36tOuFZ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aIlRks9x6USAv7kwPYW9lAxhwmLW9tmEIVKM034PblhQ8FkrAH3R27zE36tOuFZ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>With over two hours of engaging hands-on learning, participants explored how artificial intelligence can be used as a practical tool to supercharge their work—whether in managing programs, writing grants, planning outreach, or advocating for their communities. The session welcomed participants of all technical backgrounds and was structured to be immediately applicable, empowering attendees with real-world tools to streamline tasks, amplify their missions, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.The training featured an exceptional lineup of speakers:<ul><li>Sabrina Smai, AI entrepreneur and former Microsoft AI innovator, brought her expertise from 32 hackathons and years of pioneering real estate tech, sharing insights on using AI to boost productivity and innovation.</li><li>Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmed, University of Toronto professor and MATRA AI co-founder, delivered a research-driven take on AI safety, security, and ethical deployment in public-facing services.</li><li>Yusuf Siraj, co-founder of Foundation for a Path Forward and lead instructor at Coding in Colour, grounded the session in community relevance and practical, day-to-day applications for nonprofit teams.</li></ul><figure id="figure-9ilg3grinlmcantlq0"><img id="9ilg3grinlmcantlq0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31MSp4dgl65qvzTer3QEEGvnXz2lfaeZJedAPsj45ZHkXqA99ERTu7uP2qP0fnlb.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31MSp4dgl65qvzTer3QEEGvnXz2lfaeZJedAPsj45ZHkXqA99ERTu7uP2qP0fnlb.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Participants walked away with a strong foundation in AI concepts and confidence in their ability to integrate tools like ChatGPT into their daily workflows. The course also sparked crucial conversations about staying relevant in a changing world and how to use AI ethically and effectively to serve diverse communities.All attendees received certificates of completion, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback has laid the groundwork for more advanced sessions later this year. The next Transformative AI session is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, 2025, and registration is already open.For those who believe in leading with purpose and staying ahead of the curve, Transformative AI marks the beginning of a learning journey that centers innovation, inclusion, and impact.

F4W’s Transformative AI - First Batch of Nonprofit Leaders Complete Groundbreaking Training

<figure id="figure-c102vji21kmc0mil31"><img id="c102vji21kmc0mil31" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31w9NNo2jwQXDZtXVFtfpVBLCwmNzqGns1cZFoo3frv76eZprDxAKov9Qer6y66l.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31w9NNo2jwQXDZtXVFtfpVBLCwmNzqGns1cZFoo3frv76eZprDxAKov9Qer6y66l.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>On June 11, 2025, over 100 community members gathered at UBC Robson Square for the Vancouver Police Department Hate Crime Forum—an evening dedicated to education, awareness, and collaboration in the face of rising hate and discrimination. The forum brought together law enforcement, legal experts, and the public for a rare and open conversation on how hate-motivated incidents are identified, investigated, and prosecuted in Vancouver.The Foundation for a Path Forward was honoured to support this vital initiative at every stage, working closely with VPD’s Diversity, Community, and Indigenous Relations Section (DCIRS) to ensure that the event reached and reflected the diversity of the communities it aimed to serve.The forum featured keynote remarks by Deputy Chief Constable Howard Chow, as well as presentations from VPD hate crime investigators, Crown Counsel specializing in hate crime prosecution, members of the Major Crime Section, and representatives from Victim Services. Attendees were invited to learn not only the legal definition of hate crimes under Canadian law, but also how cyber hate is investigated, what supports are available for victims, and what proactive programs the VPD runs to prevent hate in the first place.<figure id="figure-jzmjwocchlmc0mjanb"><img id="jzmjwocchlmc0mjanb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fOmmKaR6y9cIwiFC74WVg6WcirQ5IXlaNW7UlAT6ceV8cA4M8IbG5uVcD3hva74.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fOmmKaR6y9cIwiFC74WVg6WcirQ5IXlaNW7UlAT6ceV8cA4M8IbG5uVcD3hva74.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The atmosphere was both educational and deeply human. For many in attendance—including faith leaders, NGO staff, educators, and local residents—the forum provided a safe and welcoming space to ask questions, share concerns, and begin to build trust with police representatives. This wasn’t just about policy—it was about people.The Foundation for a Path Forward played a key role in the forum’s success. As a trusted community partner, the Foundation helped drive strong attendance through targeted community outreach, digital promotion, and multi-faith mobilization. In the weeks leading up to the event, the Foundation activated its network across Vancouver, extending invitations to faith leaders, cultural organizations, and grassroots groups. Its outreach efforts helped ensure a rich tapestry of lived experience and cultural insight was present at the event.Recognizing the importance of digital visibility, the Foundation also implemented a focused Meta (Facebook and Instagram) campaign to promote the forum, ensuring the event was seen by thousands across the region and generating meaningful community engagement.<figure id="figure-4u5ok5tl92mc0mkqto"><img id="4u5ok5tl92mc0mkqto" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23ZfvaTmQDy9jWNshNinxSNQ5PeXGJh4wC4N9ESGZjWpy0RyQ9tnmh8cwEOY2AI5.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23ZfvaTmQDy9jWNshNinxSNQ5PeXGJh4wC4N9ESGZjWpy0RyQ9tnmh8cwEOY2AI5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Throughout the evening, many attendees expressed appreciation for the clarity and openness with which hate-related issues were addressed. Presenters walked the audience through complex questions—What qualifies as a hate crime versus a hate incident? How are digital threats pursued? What happens when someone reports?—in language that was accessible, practical, and deeply necessary.From the opening remarks to the closing conversations, the tone of the event remained anchored in collaboration, education, and prevention. The Foundation was proud to support the VPD in creating a space where communities could engage directly with law enforcement—not in conflict, but in partnership.<figure id="figure-vlowh9rjc5mc0mlik1"><img id="vlowh9rjc5mc0mlik1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eLBvYS9hrhIAupkBOZ7gXkrPtQ7ccosqWkcmZ1fcIL3TLU0M5IqEbqjqtPOjisT.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>As hate continues to evolve in both form and frequency, the Foundation for a Path Forward remains committed to standing alongside institutions like the VPD to ensure communities are not just protected, but empowered. Together, we can build a safer, more inclusive Vancouver—one rooted in justice, mutual respect, and collective resilience.

Foundation Collaborates with VPD on the First VPD Hate Crime Forum

<figure id="figure-biq4hquj8vfmc0jkhbm" class=""><img id="biq4hquj8vfmc0jkhbm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eJmIt056rB8trwDXnm351WPBYBK6QO5sgt8cJleZnXG3JfozbjuESDbMOPznCRg.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eJmIt056rB8trwDXnm351WPBYBK6QO5sgt8cJleZnXG3JfozbjuESDbMOPznCRg.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>On June 9 and 10, 2025, the Foundation for a Path Forward hosted municipal leaders, public safety officials, researchers, and civil society partners at Brampton, Ontario, for a landmark Strong Cities Network (SCN) Conference. Co-organized with the City of Brampton and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, the two-day gathering focused on city-led responses to hate, polarization, and extremism across the Peel Region, offering a uniquely local lens on global challenges.The event opened at Brampton Council Chambers with a Smudging Ceremony and land acknowledgment led by Regional Councillor Gurpartap Toor, reminding participants of the Indigenous foundations upon which discussions of equity and reconciliation must rest. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Strong Cities Executive Director Eric Rosand delivered opening remarks, setting the tone for an urgent yet collaborative convening shaped by shared responsibility and hope.In the opening panel, community safety practitioners and civic leaders explored the pressures facing Peel communities—from rising digital hate to the cascading effects of international conflicts. Speakers from Victim Services of Peel, CIVIX, and the City of Brampton unpacked how local polarization is often shaped by wider social and geopolitical dynamics, challenging cities to adopt agile, coordinated approaches rooted in care and accountability.The following session brought together actors across government levels and sectors to examine whole-of-society strategies for prevention. Featuring voices from Peel Regional Police, Public Safety Canada, and the Canadian Centre for Safer Communities, the discussion reaffirmed the value of inter-agency coordination and community-based trust-building, especially during times of global uncertainty.The day concluded with a vibrant networking reception in Brampton City Hall’s atrium and conservatory, where local organizations showcased their prevention work, and attendees made meaningful cross-sector connections.<figure id="figure-au2lbczszmmc0lch9x"><img id="au2lbczszmmc0lch9x" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aVmy0SzQU2n1yBRxeA6d7rN153rD7zYHxXevo1Vc8kTJ7sDAALvj2I2ChfxrN56d.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aVmy0SzQU2n1yBRxeA6d7rN153rD7zYHxXevo1Vc8kTJ7sDAALvj2I2ChfxrN56d.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The second day unfolded at Alderlea, a historic heritage venue in the heart of Brampton. Opening remarks by Marlon Kallideen, Eric Rosand, and Tariq Tyab, Co-Founder of the Foundation for a Path Forward, framed the day’s sessions around action, data, and local storytelling. Their remarks were followed by a keynote from Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, who emphasized the province’s commitment to community safety and hate prevention.A compelling presentation by Councillor Rowena Santos highlighted Brampton’s diverse demographics and cultural richness, setting the stage for in-depth discussions on the city’s social fabric. This was followed by Caroline Wade of the Strong Cities Network, who offered an evidence-based overview of the digital hate landscape in Peel—one that increasingly blurs the boundaries between online incitement and offline harm.One of the most powerful moments of the conference came during the panel on Understanding the On- and Offline Hate Landscape, moderated by Councillor Michael Palleschi. Panelists, including Dr. Barbara Perry, Abokar Mohammed, Feras Ismal of Peel Police, and Yusuf Siraj, Co-Founder of the Foundation, brought forward insights on how hate manifests, multiplies, and metastasizes across platforms and communities. They emphasized the need for tech literacy, cultural sensitivity, and trauma-informed support to guide local responses.This momentum carried into a focused presentation from Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah and Councillor Toor, spotlighting regional anti-hate initiatives already underway. A subsequent panel discussion explored policy and programming innovations from across the region, featuring experts from Safe City Mississauga, the City of Brampton’s Equity Office, and the Interfaith Council of Peel.Participants then engaged in breakout sessions designed to surface five concrete steps that could be taken to enhance Brampton’s anti-hate ecosystem—whether through policy, training, communications, or partnerships. The groups’ brief-backs highlighted the need for sustainable funding, clearer communication channels between communities and institutions, and improved data collection on hate incidents.The day closed with reflections on next steps and a networking lunch, leaving space for both momentum and relationship-building. Through every session, the Foundation for a Path Forward played a central role in guiding discussions, anchoring them in local expertise and lived experience, and amplifying strategies that blend prevention with inclusion.<figure id="figure-m82raruejcmc0lda5j"><img id="m82raruejcmc0lda5j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/29YrhV94Fvs0xtyRL8WZsvHo3UyCMWKgj8kyE3ERcTewJklZS04xmjIZNyFCwtI2.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>By hosting this important gathering, the Foundation helped solidify Brampton’s place as a national leader in municipal responses to hate and extremism. As Strong Cities continues to foster global partnerships and local resilience, the Foundation remains committed to supporting Canadian communities in building safer, more cohesive futures—one city at a time.

Foundation for a Path Forward

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