TORONTO — As conversations around transit safety, accessibility, and modernization continue across the Greater Toronto Area, a new generation of city builders is already stepping forward with ideas.
The 10th annual 1UP Conference, hosted by Urban Minds, brought together nearly 200 students from across Ontario in its largest gathering to date, offering a hands-on look at how youth are shaping the future of transit design.
Designing Transit for the Real World
In partnership with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), students participated in an intensive Design Jam, where they were challenged to rethink everyday transit infrastructure — from bus stops to subway platforms.
Working in teams, participants developed concepts that addressed real-world challenges, including safety, accessibility, and inclusivity for a wide range of users such as daily commuters, families, and newcomers to Canada.
The exercise reflects growing recognition within the transit sector that user experience and community input are critical to building effective public infrastructure.
A Winning Vision: “Platform of the Future”
The conference culminated in a series of presentations judged by TTC staff and industry professionals.
The winning team — comprised of Jonathan Lee, Lucas Klemmer, Alice Tulloch, Benjamin Gray, Filip Simonovski, and Isaac Osei — was recognized for its concept titled “Platform of the Future.”
Their proposal focused on practical, scalable improvements, including:
- Repurposing underutilized station concourses into community-focused spaces
- Introducing real-time passenger counters to better manage crowd flow
- Enhancing accessibility through tactile wayfinding systems and subtitle-based announcements
Judges highlighted the concept’s emphasis on cost-effective solutions using existing Canadian technologies, making it both innovative and realistic.
Youth Engagement in City Building
The conference also served as a platform for students to engage directly with professionals in urban planning, transit, architecture, and housing through an interactive career fair.
“It’s great to see so much enthusiasm for transit innovation — we truly value the perspective of our young customers,” said Josh Colle, TTC Chief Strategy and Customer Experience Officer, noting the importance of community-driven design.
Organizers say initiatives like the 1UP Conference are critical in fostering early interest in city-building careers and ensuring that future infrastructure reflects diverse perspectives.
A Growing Movement Across Ontario
Since its founding in 2016, Urban Minds has expanded significantly, now reaching 20 municipalities and 26 student chapters, supported by more than 60 volunteers.
The organization’s mission is to bridge the gap between youth and decision-makers, empowering students to contribute to equitable and sustainable urban development.
Why It Matters Now
With transit systems across the GTA facing increasing pressure — from population growth to safety concerns — the ideas generated at the 1UP Conference highlight the value of forward-thinking, community-informed design.
As policymakers and transit agencies look to the future, the message from these students is clear: the next generation isn’t just riding the system — they’re ready to help redesign it.
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