1UP Youth Conference Toronto 2026 sees students design future TTC transit stops
TORONTO, ON – Nearly 200 high school students from across Ontario are set to gather at York University this weekend for the 10th annual 1UP Youth Conference, a hands-on event focused on urban design, city building and the future of transit in Toronto.
Hosted by Toronto-based non-profit Urban Minds, the two-day conference runs March 28–29 at Vari Hall and will bring together students, industry professionals and transit leaders to collaborate on real-world planning challenges.
Students Take on TTC Design Challenge
A key highlight of the conference is Sunday’s “Design Jam,” where students will work in teams to prototype new transit stop designs for buses, streetcars and subways in partnership with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).
The student-led concepts will be presented directly to a panel of judges, including TTC staff, with ideas expected to contribute to ongoing discussions around transit infrastructure and the City of Toronto’s street furniture consultations.
Organizers say the exercise is designed to give young people a meaningful role in shaping public spaces.
Bridging Youth and City Building
Urban Minds, founded in 2016, aims to connect youth with decision-makers in urban development. Through its programs, the organization has worked with thousands of students across Ontario, encouraging them to take part in designing more equitable and sustainable communities.
The 1UP Conference is a cornerstone of that mission, offering participants the opportunity to explore careers in planning, architecture, transit and design while contributing ideas to real-world projects.
Career Fair and Industry Access
In addition to the Design Jam, the conference will feature a career fair and panel discussions, allowing students to connect with professionals across the built environment sector.
A career panel is scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m., while Sunday’s career fair begins at 9 a.m., providing students with direct access to industry leaders and potential career pathways.
Organizers say the event not only fosters creativity but also builds practical skills and awareness of how cities evolve.
Looking Ahead
As Toronto continues to grow, initiatives like the 1UP Youth Conference highlight the role young people can play in shaping the future of urban development.
With direct collaboration between students, transit agencies and industry professionals, the conference provides a platform for fresh ideas that may influence future planning decisions across the city.
Organizers say continued engagement between youth and decision-makers will be key to building more inclusive, accessible and forward-thinking communities.
Stay with GTA Weekly for coverage of youth innovation and the future of city building.
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