Foundations of Peace: Youth Day Camp

27-31 July, 2026

Foundations of Peace is a one-week peace education program for high school students interested in learning about peace and conflict transformation.

Foundations of Peace: Youth Day Camp is run through the Toronto Peace Academy, an initiative by the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church (1038 Woodbine Ave. Toronto, ON). While the Anabaptist tradition and Mennonite church hold a long-standing commitment to non-violence, this Day Camp explores peace in a way that is open to everyone and not tied to any one religion. All high school students are welcome, regardless of their faith, cultural background, identity, or personal beliefs.

This 5-day camp will culminate in a Community Peace Summit on Saturday, August 1st at the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church. Youth Day Camp participants will have the opportunity to share what they have learned during the week. The Summit will also bring together several local peace and justice organizations for a networking and bridge-building event, creating space for connection, collaboration, and dialogue as the community works toward a shared vision of peace in Toronto

We believe peace is a universal right and we are committed to financial accessibility for all our programs. We offer three options that allows you to choose the price that best fits your situation.

Option A: $90 (subsidized)

Option B: $140 (mid-point)

Option C: $190 (full cost)

Payment options along with payment instructions are found in the registration form.

Anyone currently in high school (9th-12th grade) is eligible, including those entering high school Fall 2026 and those who are finishing 12th grade in 2026.

For High Schoolers

Flexible Prices

Expectations

Participants are expected to bring their own notebook and pen or pencil as well as a reusable water bottle. A survey will be sent to the participants in the weeks leading up to the camp to assist in program customization.

Lunch along with light refreshments in the mornings and afternoons will be provided. Please indicate dietary needs in the registration form.

Sample Schedule

8:00-9:00

Arrive

9:00-9:30

Opening

9:30-11:00

11:00-11:15

11:15-12:00

12:00-12:30

12:30-13:00

13:00-15:30

15:30-16:00

16:00-16:30

Morning session
Break
Group work
Lunch
Clean up/Break
Afternoon Session
Closing
Dismissal

Meet the Facilitators

Joshua is a peace educator from Macau, China. He holds degrees in conflict resolution from George Mason University and has a range of international peacebuilding experience. His background includes youth development, community dialogue facilitation, and workplace mediation with faith-based, higher education, and governmental organizations.

Joshua Lash-Ballew, MS
Lead Facilitator
Christina Reimer, PhD
Guest Facilitator

Bio pending.

To be filled
Lead Peace Intern Position

Accepting applications soon!

Accepting applications soon!

To be filled
Peace Intern Position

Register Today

Once registrations are full,
a wait list will be created.