09/12/2025

RPTV News - Ontario First Nations Leaders Address Community Wellness and Policy Impacts at Toronto Media Event

RPTV’s Indigenous coverage continues with highlights from a recent media conference hosted by the Chiefs of Ontario during the 2nd Annual First Nations Community Wellness Conference in the heart of Toronto. The event brought together First Nations leadership, youth representatives, and community advocates to address urgent challenges affecting communities across Ontario — including those living in Toronto. Speakers discussed the social determinants of health impacting First Nations communities, such as housing, infrastructure, education, land-based connections, and economic stability. Leaders also raised serious concerns about the impacts of Bill 5 and Bill C-5, which they argue threaten Treaty rights and First Nations sovereignty. Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict was joined by Chief Shelly Moore-Frappier of Temagami First Nation, Chief R. Donald Maracle of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, and Kyra Willoughby from the Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council. This…

09/09/2025

RPTV - Communities Face Growing Overdose Crisis as NDP-MPPs Demand Urgent Provincial Action

At Queen’s Park, NDP-MPPs and community advocates came together to demand immediate action on Ontario’s escalating overdose crisis. Among them was Toronto Centre MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam, who joined Dr. Robin Lennox, Alexa Gilmour, community advocate Diana Chan McNally, and parent Heather Robinson, whose son David tragically died of an overdose at just 17. Last year, Ontario lost 2,244 people to drug overdoses. Since the onset of the poisoned drug supply, more Ontarians have died from overdoses than from COVID-19, yet the province still lacks a coordinated strategy to address this public health emergency. Speakers stressed that the closure of Safe Consumption Sites has worsened conditions across Ontario, forcing people into streets, parks, and alleyways, while increasing overdose risks and creating unsafe environments for entire communities. For Toronto’s Downtown East — including Regent Park and Moss Park — the crisis is deeply personal. These neighbourhoods are among the…

09/06/2025

RPTV News - Communities Face Growing Overdose Crisis as NDP-MPPs Demand Urgent Provincial Action

At Queen’s Park, NDP-MPPs and community advocates came together to demand immediate action on Ontario’s escalating overdose crisis. Among them was Toronto Centre MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam, who joined Dr. Robin Lennox, Alexa Gilmour, community advocate Diana Chan McNally, and parent Heather Robinson, whose son David tragically died of an overdose at just 17. Last year, Ontario lost 2,244 people to drug overdoses. Since the onset of the poisoned drug supply, more Ontarians have died from overdoses than from COVID-19, yet the province still lacks a coordinated strategy to address this public health emergency. Speakers stressed that the closure of Safe Consumption Sites has worsened conditions across Ontario, forcing people into streets, parks, and alleyways, while increasing overdose risks and creating unsafe environments for entire communities. For Toronto’s Downtown East — including Regent Park and Moss Park — the crisis is deeply personal. These neighbourhoods are among the…

(Free) Documentary Film Workshops
 09/06/2025

(Free) Documentary Film Workshops

The Focus Media Arts program will be offering free documentary filmmaking workshops through September 30th to December 3rd 2025. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 5pm to 7pm Ages 15-30.

08/05/2025

RPTV - Healing Our Inner Child: Indigenous Health Gathering Centers Culture, Community Care, and Renewal

Toronto’s Downtown East was home to an inspiring moment of Indigenous-led healing on July 23. Hosted by the Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre, the 2025 Indigenous Health Gathering took place at the Spaces Building in Moss Park. Under the theme Healing Our Inner Child, the event welcomed community members into a day of ceremony, care, and connection. The Red Bear Singers—residential school survivors—opened the gathering with traditional songs and drums, grounding the space in cultural presence. Around the hall, Indigenous health organizations shared tools and knowledge, including Toronto Public Health, CAMH’s Shkaabe Makwa, and 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations. RPTV’s Thunder Cloud interviewed First Nations participants and health advocates, spotlighting services rooted in Indigenous knowledge and addressing the needs of urban Indigenous communities. A powerful teaching came from Anishinaabe Grandmother Vivian Recollet, spirit name Bigasohn Kwe, who spoke on the…

08/05/2025

RPTV - Louis March Park Renaming Celebrated

The City of Toronto officially renamed the Sumach-Shuter Parkette to Louis March Park, in honour of the late community leader and anti-gun violence advocate. A ceremony on July 20 brought together elected officials, community organizers, and residents to recognize March’s decades-long commitment to youth, justice, and healing. The event, held in Regent Park, featured a land acknowledgment, a libation ceremony, spoken word performances, and tributes from those who worked closely with March. Mayor Olivia Chow, Ward 13 Councillor Chris Moise, and MPP Chris Glover all delivered remarks highlighting March’s influence across Toronto, particularly in communities most impacted by violence. Louis March founded the Zero Gun Violence Movement and worked tirelessly to address the root causes of youth violence. His outreach extended to neighbourhoods like Regent Park, where he often collaborated with local organizations, supported grieving families, and organized events promoting peace and…

07/23/2025

RPTV - Car Slams Into Café ZUZU in Regent Park — Driver Arrested for Impaired Driving

Early Saturday morning, a vehicle crashed into the front of Café ZUZU, a well-known café in Toronto’s Regent Park neighbourhood, near the corner of Dundas Street East and Sackville Street. Toronto Police say they responded to the single-vehicle collision just before 4:30 a.m. A 36-year-old woman was arrested at the scene for suspected impaired driving. Photos from the crash show shattered glass, twisted metal, and significant damage to the café’s front entrance. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as Café ZUZU was closed when the crash occurred. Despite the destruction, Café ZUZU has already reopened. Staff, with the help of emergency responders and support from the local community, acted quickly to clean up and restore the space. For many in the area, the café is more than a restaurant — it's a key part of the neighbourhood and a place where people come together. RPTV reporters Jabin and Miguel visited the crash site and spoke with Tyler Rutherford, Director of…

07/23/2025

RPTV - TDSB Trustee Deborah Williams Speaks Out on Provincial Takeover and Bill 33

At a time of rising concern for public education in Toronto, Regent Park TV sat down with TDSB Trustee Deborah Williams for an important conversation about what’s happening behind the scenes. The interview, recorded at the Focus Media Arts Centre in Regent Park, comes days after the Ontario government placed the Toronto District School Board—and three other major boards—under provincial supervision. Trustee Williams, who represents Ward 10 (University–Rosedale and Toronto Centre), explains what this decision means for students, families, and communities like Regent Park in Toronto’s Downtown East. Since June 27, elected trustees have been stripped of their ability to make decisions, hold meetings, or connect with constituents using board resources. Williams challenges the province’s justification of “financial mismanagement,” pointing instead to chronic underfunding and a growing political agenda that includes Bill 33—a proposed law that would bring police back into…

04/26/2025

Toronto Centre - Candidates Meeting in Regent Park

On Wednesday April 30, 2025, three candidates running for federal elections in the riding of Toronto Centre, met at the Daniels Spectrum Arts Centre in Regent Park, to share their platforms and to answer questions from the Toronto Downtown East Community.

04/14/2025

RPTV - Toronto Centre Candidates and Community Decisions Ahead

With the 2025 federal election fast approaching, Toronto Centre is emerging as one of the most closely watched races in the country. This densely populated riding, which includes Regent Park, St. James Town, Cabbagetown, and Church-Wellesley, represents a diverse and evolving urban landscape. Home to a mix of long-time residents, newcomers, and marginalized communities, the riding faces pressing issues such as housing affordability, social inequality, and economic recovery. As candidates present their platforms, voters will play a crucial role in shaping the future of a riding that reflects both the challenges and opportunities of urban Canada. The race features a strong lineup of candidates. NDP’s Samantha Green emphasizes affordable housing and climate action. Liberal Evan Solomon, a former broadcaster, promotes economic growth and social justice. Conservative Luis Ibarra, a community activist, highlights fiscal responsibility and immigrant engagement. Green Party’s Olivia Iheme…

03/13/2025

RPTV - Gushi's View on Community Change

Shinji Yamaguchi, owner of Gushi, reflects on community transformation and the impact of local redevelopment. Shinji Yamaguchi, the owner of Gushi Japanese Street Food, spoke about the evolving dynamics of his neighborhood since opening his business in 2019. He observed a significant change, particularly after the area's development and demolition of older buildings. One notable aspect was the constant presence of ambulances near Anniversary Park, a common sight as local residents faced health and social challenges. Yamaguchi described the park as a space attracting problematic behavior, with people frequently drinking and leaving trash behind, making it less welcoming. However, he remains hopeful about future improvements as redevelopment plans are expected to brighten the park and surrounding areas. Despite the ongoing issues, Yamaguchi appreciates the neighborhood's growing sense of community and mutual support, which he believes is gradually improving the environment.

03/13/2025

RPTV - Restaurateur Navigates Challenges and Community Support in Regent Park

Regent Park entrepreneur Rashmi Shrestha has turned her passion for the food industry into a thriving business despite economic challenges. Having worked in the food sector for over 15 years, including a managerial role at Whole Foods, she decided to establish her own Asian fusion restaurant, Bowl and Snacks. Her menu features a diverse range of dishes, from sushi to Nepalese, Indian, and Indonesian cuisine, reflecting both her culinary expertise and heritage. Rashmi, a Nepalese immigrant who moved to Canada in 2008, has called Regent Park home for over 16 years. She praises the community's support, crediting locals for helping her business stay afloat. However, she acknowledges the difficulties of running a small restaurant in a neighborhood facing economic struggles, homelessness, and transient customers. Despite these obstacles, Rashmi remains optimistic about the future. To stay competitive, she plans to expand her digital marketing efforts, recognizing that social media outreach…

03/13/2025

RPTV - Neighbourhood Community Officers Discuss Crime Trends and Safety Strategies in Our Local Communities

Regent Park TV recently welcomed Neighbourhood Community Officers from Toronto Police’s 51 Division—Constables Farzad Ghotbi, Mircea Biga, and Illankumaran Shanmuganathan—for an in-depth discussion on safety, crime trends, and community engagement in Regent Park and St. James Town. During the interview, the officers provided updates on crime trends, noting an increase in gun violence compared to 2023, a year that saw no shootings in Regent Park. They emphasized that while overall crime rates fluctuate, continued community collaboration remains crucial. The officers also highlighted their role in trust-building through consistent engagement, working alongside residents to address safety concerns. Another key issue discussed was the rise in hate crimes in our local community, particularly antisemitism and Islamophobia. Officers underscored their commitment to fostering inclusivity by supporting diverse communities and ensuring public safety through education and outreach. As the…

03/13/2025

RPTV - Residents Demand City Prioritize Marginalized Communities in 2025 Budget

At the Budget Subcommittee meetings on January 21 and 22, 2025, residents from across Toronto gathered at City Hall and virtually to voice their concerns and advocate for priorities in the City’s 2025 Capital and Operating Budgets. The hearings provided an essential platform for public input, with impactful testimonies from a diverse array of communities. Among the most impactful testimonies were those from Regent Park residents, who painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by their community. Speakers called for urgent investments in affordable housing, youth programs, and the Social Development Plan in Regent Park to address the ongoing issues of gentrification and economic inequality. Two residents also highlighted the valuable work of Regent Park TV and advocated for more support for the station, emphasizing its role in amplifying community voices and fostering local engagement. Community members also voiced strong opposition to the proposed $46.2 million budget increase…

03/13/2025

RPTV - Regent Park Past, Present, and Future – Deany Peters' Journey of Advocacy

Deany Peters has been a pillar of the Regent Park community since 1981, dedicating her life to fostering civic engagement and advocating for social change. For over three decades, she worked as a Community Development Worker at the Regent Park Community Health Centre, all while serving on numerous non-profit boards. Her tireless dedication earned her the Sir James Woods Award for Community Development in 2013, a testament to her unwavering commitment to improving her neighbourhood. When reflecting on her early years in Regent Park, Deany recalls the deep sense of community that inspired her. From local gatherings to grassroots initiatives, these experiences not only left a lasting impression on her but also motivated her to empower others to take action. She acknowledges the challenges residents faced when initiating programs independently, often encountering resistance from city officials. Yet, these obstacles only fueled her resolve to advocate for the neighbourhood she loves. The…

02/26/2025

Restaurateur Navigates Challenges and Community Support in Regent Park

Regent Park entrepreneur Rashmi Shrestha has turned her passion for the food industry into a thriving business despite economic challenges. Having worked in the food sector for over 15 years, including a managerial role at Whole Foods, she decided to establish her own Asian fusion restaurant, Bowl and Snacks. Her menu features a diverse range of dishes, from sushi to Nepalese, Indian, and Indonesian cuisine, reflecting both her culinary expertise and heritage. Rashmi, a Nepalese immigrant who moved to Canada in 2008, has called Regent Park home for over 16 years. She praises the community's support, crediting locals for helping her business stay afloat. However, she acknowledges the difficulties of running a small restaurant in a neighborhood facing economic struggles, homelessness, and transient customers. Despite these obstacles, Rashmi remains optimistic about the future. To stay competitive, she plans to expand her digital marketing efforts, recognizing that social media outreach…

01/24/2025

RPTV - Let’s Talk Budget: Engaging Wards 10 and 13 at Toronto’s 2025 Budget Town Hall

On January 16th, 2025, Councillor Chris Moise of Ward 13 and Deputy Mayor Councillor Ausma Malik of Ward 10 co-hosted the annual Budget Town Hall Meeting at Toronto City Hall. The event featured key speakers, including Mayor Olivia Chow and Budget Chief Councillor Shelley Carroll, providing residents with a comprehensive overview of the city’s 2025 budget.

01/24/2025

RPTV - Regent Park: Past, Present, and Future – Deany Peters' Journey of Advocacy

Deany Peters has been a pillar of the Regent Park community since 1981, dedicating her life to fostering civic engagement and advocating for social change. For over three decades, she worked as a Community Development Worker at the Regent Park Community Health Centre, all while serving on numerous non-profit boards. Her tireless dedication earned her the Sir James Woods Award for Community Development in 2013, a testament to her unwavering commitment to improving her neighbourhood.

01/24/2025

RPTV - Social Planning Toronto Hosts 2025 City Budget Virtual Town Hall Highlighting Community Concerns

On January 16, 2025, Social Planning Toronto hosted a virtual Budget Town Hall, offering a platform for community leaders and residents to dissect the 2025 City Budget and its implications. The event featured prominent voices like Sara Beyer from the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights, Diana Chan McNally of The Shift, Daniella Leacock from the Toronto Drop-In Network, and Stephen Mensah of the Toronto Youth Cabinet.

01/08/2025

RPTV NEWS Holiday Edition - 2024 SDP Grant Recipients & Daniels Community Access Program

In RPTV last segment of the year, we report on the 11 successful applicants of the 2024 SDP Grant. The grant, which is administered by the City of Toronto Community Funding Unit, provides funding to projects that are aligned with the four priority areas of the SDP and promote social cohesion and inclusion. The projects will begin in the new year. In this episode RPTV also reports on the release of the Daniels Spectrum Community Access Program. The program provides selected community groups with free or significantly reduced access to Daniel event spaces at the Daniel Spectrum Centre. RPTV ends the episode by wishing our viewers a safe and happy holiday season.

01/07/2025

RPTV - Regent Park SDP Planning Committee, Discusses Funding and Administrative Role Extension

On December 5th, the Regent Park Social Development Plan (SDP) Planning Committee met to review progress and address key funding concerns for future initiatives. Facilitated by Elena Taghizadeh, the meeting focused on strategic planning, community funding, and the extension of the SDP administrative coordinator’s position. Joel Klassen, agency co-chair for the Community Building Working Table, informed the committee that the administrative coordinator’s role would be extended by three to five months, until the ongoing SDP refresh process is completed. Klassen proposed inviting City of Toronto staff to future meetings to provide more clarity on the extension and explore potential updates to the position’s responsibilities. A major focus of the meeting was the need to secure sustainable funding for the SDP to continue into the future. Co-chair Walied Khogali Ali highlighted the crucial role of funding in supporting grassroots initiatives, community safety programs, and fostering…