Peel Regional Police is celebrating the graduation of 55 young people and 14 team leads from the 2026 Youth in Policing Initiative, an eight-week summer employment and leadership program that wrapped up this month.

The program, known as YIPI, has been a fixture of youth engagement in the region since it launched in 2009 with just 10 participants. Nearly 300 young people have taken part over its history, according to a Peel Regional Police news release.

This year's cohort spent eight weeks working alongside officers and civilian members of the service, contributing to community projects, exploring careers in policing, public safety and public service, and building leadership and workplace skills through hands-on learning.

A new milestone for 2026 was a funded dual-credit opportunity offered through Sheridan College, allowing participants to earn both secondary and post-secondary credits alongside their summer work experience.

The program is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and the Peel Police Service Board.

A pipeline into policing and public service

The service says the program's long-term influence is visible within its own ranks. Chief Nishan Duraiappah is among the members of Peel Regional Police who participated in YIPI as a student before pursuing a career in policing.

"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," Duraiappah said in the news release.

"This year's participants demonstrated a commitment to leadership and community service and we are proud of everything they have accomplished," he added.

Omar Khan, vice-chair of the Peel Police Service Board, said the program is an investment in young people and in the future of the 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," Khan said in the release.

"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," he said.

Dr. Cindy Gouveia, president and vice-chancellor of Sheridan College, said the graduating class embraced every opportunity to learn, lead and grow over the summer.

"They have built new skills, discovered new strengths and gained valuable experience that will help shape their futures," Gouveia said in the release. "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."

A graduation ceremony brought together participants, their families, community partners, elected officials, educational leaders and members of the police service to recognize the 2026 cohort's achievements.

More information about the YIPI program is available on the Peel Regional Police website.