On February 24, 2026, The Children’s Breakfast Clubs, in partnership with VIA Rail Canada, and ATU 113, brought 185 students and educators from across the Greater Toronto Area to Ottawa for a powerful Black History Month experience focused on youth leadership and representation.
The journey began at Union Station, where students eagerly set off to explore Canada’s democratic heart. During the train ride, they signed their shirts and presented them to Vladimir Jean-Pierre, Director of Mechanical and Equipment Maintenance at VIA Rail Canada, as a thank you for helping make the trip possible.
In Ottawa, students toured the Parliament Buildings and participated in educational activities centered on civic engagement and community impact. A key highlight was presenting The Children’s Breakfast Clubs’ 2026 Black History Month poster in the House of Commons, celebrating young leaders who are making a difference.
We do this work because representation and opportunity matter. When students step into spaces of leadership and decision-making, it expands what they believe is possible for their futures.
We are especially proud of Suren Kunasegar, a former The Children’s Breakfast Clubs student who joined our Ottawa trip in 2013 as a Grade 5 student. Today, he serves as an Executive Assistant with the Ministry of Public Safety, a powerful example of the lasting impact of opportunity and exposure.
As part of the day, students also had the opportunity to connect with community leaders, including members of the Ottawa Police Service, during a welcome reception.
This unforgettable experience brought to life our theme, “Youth Can Make a Difference,” reminding students that their voices matter, today and in the future.
Thank you to VIA Rail Canada, ATU 113, Toronto Police Service, Ottawa Police Service, and all our partners for your continued support and belief in our youth
No comments yet.