We’re delighted to have had the opportunity to sponsor Urban Minds’ 1UP Leaders Lab 2024 mentorship program, an inspiring initiative that empowers high school students to make a tangible impact in their communities through creative design and problem-solving. This year’s 1UP Leaders Lab was one of the program’s most successful yet, reaching 29 students from 18 high schools across southern Ontario. These motivated young leaders formed 1UP School Chapters, where they identified community challenges and, with the support of mentors, began designing solutions tailored to their neighborhoods.

Professionals from architecture, interior design, urban planning, and community engagement joined the program to guide students through this process, helping them to build valuable skills in leadership, design thinking, and project development. With mentors offering their expertise, students had the unique opportunity to learn directly from industry experts, equipping them to take on projects that reflect both local needs and sustainable design principles.

BDP Quadrangle is proud to have contributed to an event that not only fosters youth engagement in city building but also creates a meaningful foundation for the next generation of designers, planners, and community advocates. We’re excited to see how these young leaders apply their experiences and bring positive, innovative change to their communities in the future.