Toronto residents will head to the polls on October 26th to choose their representatives for City Council and the next mayor. As election campaigns bring a flurry of promises and slogans, it can be challenging to keep track of who stands for what.
Enter Iya Thompson, a remarkable nine-year-old from Beaches-East York. Despite being too young to vote, Iya is making a big impact by interviewing local candidates and shedding light on key issues through her show “Iya on Toronto.”
Using platforms like Instagram and YouTube, Iya is on a mission to educate voters and encourage informed decision-making for the upcoming municipal election. She is engaging with all 13 candidates in her ward, asking them about their priorities, favorite places in the community, and the city’s pressing issues.
The candidates are emphasizing the importance of listening to their constituents and addressing concerns such as traffic congestion and the beauty of the local beach. Through her initiative, Iya is not only learning about government but also teaching others about civic engagement.
Inspired by her father, Iya’s passion for public service is evident as she strives to influence the future of her city. Her show has garnered attention from various candidates and community members, recognizing the value of her efforts in creating a platform for political discourse.
With a growing online following, Iya is becoming a voice for those seeking local information and civic involvement. Residents of Beaches-East York applaud her for promoting youth engagement in elections and her impressive understanding of politics at such a young age.
As Iya ponders a potential future in politics, she encourages other kids to participate in the electoral process and learn about voting during Kids Vote Weekend on October 10th and 11th. This event allows young participants to cast their ballots for the ‘2027 Tree of the Year’ at advance polling locations.
