How tech can help solve Canada's youth mental health crisis!
Canada is facing a youth mental health emergency. One in two young people report struggling with their mental health and suicide remains the second leading cause of death among youth ages 15–24. In 2025 alone, Kids Help Phone facilitated more than 3.7 million connections with young people across Canada, providing free, confidential support whenever it was needed.
As demand continues to grow, so does the need for new ideas and new partners. Through AI, data and applied research, Kids Help Phone is exploring new ways to improve access to care and support more young people before a crisis escalates.
This breakfast is an opportunity to connect Canada's technology community with one of the country's most important social challenges.
Learn how Kids Help Phone is working with innovators through acceleratorKHP, where collaboration can make the greatest impact, and how together we can accelerate the next generation of youth mental health solutions.
Speakers
Sheldon McCormick, CEO, Communitech
Aaron Sanderson, President & CEO, Kids Help Phone Foundation
Justin Scaini, Executive Vice President, Technology & Data, Kids Help Phone
Naomi Lau, Ecosystem & Partnerships Lead, Two Small Fish Ventures
Agenda
8:00 a.m.
Breakfast and networking
Connect with founders, technology leaders, investors and community partners over a light breakfast.
8:20 a.m.
Welcome and Kids Help Phone Innovation Showcase
Learn how Kids Help Phone is using innovation, AI and data to strengthen youth mental health support across Canada, and where new partnerships can make the greatest impact.
8:35 a.m.
Networking and meet the speakers
Continue the conversation with Kids Help Phone leaders, partners and members of Waterloo Region's innovation ecosystem.
9:00 a.m.
Event concludes