Building a Future Where Our Youth Choose Edmonton

When I decided to run for City Council, I knew that engaging with our youth had to be a priority. If Edmonton were to lead it depended on whether young people see this city as a place where they can thrive - with opportunities for good jobs, safe communities, and a sense of belonging.

Over the past few months, I’ve made it a point to listen directly to youth in our community. What I’ve heard is both inspiring and concerning. They’re full of ideas, energy, and ambition, but too often, they’re unsure if Edmonton is the place where they can fulfill their dreams. They’ve shared with me that they struggle to find employment, that parts of the city don’t always feel safe to move through, and that some of them question whether they’ll make Edmonton their long-term home.

As a father of two young girls, this matters to me deeply. I want my daughters to see Edmonton as the place where they can grow, succeed, and proudly build their lives. And I want every young person in this city to feel the same sense of pride and purpose.

That’s why I’m launching a survey focused on youth voices. I want to hear directly from them - their challenges, their ideas, and their vision for the future of Edmonton. This feedback will help shape my campaign, because I believe youth deserve not just to be heard, but to see their voices reflected in real action.

The choices we make as a city today will determine whether our next generation chooses Edmonton tomorrow. Let’s make sure we’re building a city worth choosing.

If you’re a young person, I invite you to take part in this survey and share your perspective. And if you’re a parent, mentor, or community member, please share this with the youth in your life. Together, we can build a future where Edmonton is not just where our youth grow up, but where they choose to stay.

Rupesh Patel

Edmonton City Council Candidate for pihêsiwin