October 2025: Innovation, Inclusion, and Building a Better Future

October may have been a shorter month for me thanks to some travel with my family, but it was still filled with moments that captured what makes Vancouver such a dynamic, caring, and forward-looking city. From supporting seniors to advancing clean energy and innovation, it was a reminder of the many ways we’re shaping a more livable and compassionate future together.

We began the month by proclaiming October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons at Vancouver City Hall — a celebration of the elders who built our communities and continue to shape them today. Through the City’s Older Persons Strategic Framework, we’re advancing work to make Vancouver an age-friendly city — one where people of all ages can live with dignity, connection, and purpose. With those aged 65+ now representing 17% of our population and growing five times faster than those under 65, these investments matter more than ever.

Expanding Clean Energy and Sustainable Living

Alongside Mayor Ken Sim, MP Hedy Fry, and colleagues, I joined the announcement of the False Creek Neighbourhood Energy Utility (NEU) expansion — an exciting partnership between all levels of government. Powered largely by recycled wastewater heat, this expansion will extend low-carbon energy to more homes and businesses across False Creek, Mount Pleasant, and the Flats. It’s a model for how cities can meet their climate goals while reducing building-related emissions and energy costs.

I also joined Councillor Lisa Dominato and community partners at the grand opening of the new Return-It Express & Recycling Centre on Grandview Highway. This initiative, led by Encorp Pacific and supported by the City, will make recycling more accessible while advancing our Zero Waste 2040 goals and the circular economy. A heartfelt thank you to the Coastal Wolfpack for their powerful opening performance and to everyone involved in creating a greener future for Vancouver.

It was inspiring to tour Brightside Homes’ Sunrise Village, a new affordable housing development at Renfrew & Venables that’s setting a new standard for sustainable living. Built to Passive House certification and part of Brightside’s journey to becoming a fully net-zero housing provider, this project will deliver 100% affordable homes for residents of all ages. It’s a testament to what’s possible through partnership and innovation in housing design.

Celebrating Innovation and Local Enterprise

October was also a month to celebrate innovation — both in Vancouver’s tech ecosystem and its thriving creative economy.

At The Next Vancouver, hosted by CityAge, I joined thought leaders exploring how our region can lead in housing, clean energy, and the blue economy. Later in the month, I spoke at the Frontier Summit, where 150 global innovators gathered to discuss AI, climate, and the future of technology. These events highlighted Vancouver’s role as a city that attracts big ideas — and puts them into action.

I also attended the 2025 Technology Impact Awards, hosted by BC Tech, where our province’s boldest companies and brightest minds were recognized for pushing the boundaries of innovation. Congratulations to all the winners — and to BC Tech CEO Jill Tipping for curating such an inspiring celebration of our growing tech sector.

Closer to home, I was inspired to visit Ink Pad Print Shop in Strathcona — a dynamic local business whose creative energy reaches from film and television productions to sports franchises like the Vancouver Canucks. Co-founders Lina Mejia and Andy Young have built more than a design studio; they’ve created a space that supports young artists, local events, and the community spirit that defines Vancouver.

And it was a pleasure to connect with business leaders from across the city at the annual Vancouver BIA Partnership Fall Mixer — a chance to strengthen collaboration with the organizations that help our neighbourhoods thrive.

Transit, Culture, and Community

As Deputy Mayor, I had the honour of representing the City at the 30th Anniversary of the West Coast Express, celebrating three decades of commuter rail service connecting communities from Mission to downtown Vancouver. A big thank you to TransLink for keeping our region moving safely, sustainably, and efficiently — and for organizing such a joyful celebration for train enthusiasts young and old.

This month also included some wonderful cultural moments that remind us of the diversity and vibrancy of Vancouver. I was delighted to attend Diwali Fest, a beautiful celebration of light, renewal, and community spirit that once again showcased the inclusiveness of our city.

I also had the joy of attending the 2025 BC Restaurant Hall of Fame Awards, celebrating the people and passion behind B.C.’s incredible culinary industry. Congratulations to all the honourees — from visionary restaurateurs to rising chefs — who make our city’s food scene world-class.

Recognizing Leaders Who Shape Our City

October also brought moments of civic pride as we honoured two individuals who have left indelible marks on Vancouver.

At City Hall, we awarded the Freedom of the City Medal to Michael Audain, whose lifelong dedication to the arts, affordable housing, and conservation has strengthened our city’s cultural and social fabric. Through the Audain Art Museum and his philanthropy, Michael has nurtured generations of artists and inspired others to give back.

And just last month, we celebrated Ryan Reynolds, whose global success and local generosity earned him the Freedom of the City Award. It was an unforgettable experience to join the ceremony — and yes, posing for a photo with Ryan was pretty special!

At City Hall, Council also proclaimed October as Intimate Partner Violence Awareness Month, joined by members of the VPD’s Intimate Partner Violence and Risk Assessment Unit. Nearly half of women in B.C. have experienced intimate partner violence since age 15, with even higher rates among Indigenous and 2SLGBTQ+ communities. This proclamation is both an act of awareness and a call to action — reminding us that everyone deserves to live in safety and dignity.

Looking Ahead

As we turn toward the final months of the year, I’m inspired by the collaboration, creativity, and compassion I’ve seen across Vancouver — from innovation in clean energy to inclusive celebrations and community partnerships. Thank you for staying connected and for continuing to build a city that works for everyone.