On March 13–14, Ontario Tech University hosted the first-ever Smart Communities Challenge in partnership with Earth District.

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Never heard of Earth District? Here is the inside scoop:

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Earth District is a consortium of five postsecondary institutions that foster a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration, research, education, and commercialization to drive sustainable technology sectors, prioritize local community well-being, and catalyze economic growth.

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The partner institutions include Centennial College, Ontario Tech University, Fleming College, Trent University, and the University of Toronto Scarborough. As the entrepreneurship and innovation hub at Ontario Tech University, Brilliant Catalyst played an important role in helping bring this initiative to life.

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The Challenge

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Over two days, interdisciplinary teams worked with industry mentors to address real-world challenges in urban design, mobility, sustainability, and technology. The challenge aims to generate ideas that improve the quality of life, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen community resilience.

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The event opened with remarks from MPP Coe, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of innovation, collaboration, and community-driven solutions in shaping the future of Ontario’s cities and regions.

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The challenge focused on three key themes: Smart Urban Development & Sustainability, Integrated Mobility & Quality of Life, and Climate Resilient Urban Ecosystems. Each theme featured an expert in the field who helped guide and inspire students throughout the event, including:

• Isabel Savransky, Sustainability and Asset Planner at Ontario Tech University
• Alison Burgess, Director of Communications and Engagement at the Regional Municipality of Durham
• Neil Ever Osborne, Assistant Professor at Trent University, Photojournalist, and Explorer for National Geographic

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Final pitches were scored by the following panel of industry and academic judges:

• Dr. Scott Henderson, Vice-President and Head of Trent University Durham GTA
• Darryl Gray, Director, Education and Training at Toronto and Region Conservation
• Holly Trotman, Durham Region Transit Ambassador for Strategic Change Management
• Kevin Farlie, Assistant Technical Engineer in Regulatory Affairs at Ontario Power Generation 

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This work aligns closely with the region’s growing reputation as a leader in smart and connected communities. In 2025, Durham Region was named one of the world’s Top 10 Intelligent Communities by the Intelligent Community Forum. This recognition highlights the region’s commitment to innovation, digital infrastructure, and inclusive economic development. Initiatives like the Smart Communities Challenge help cultivate the next generation of thinkers and builders who will contribute to this momentum.

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A quick snapshot of the challenge’s impact:

• 28 students engaged across 5 institutions
• 15 plus industry experts and ecosystem partners
• $1,500 in prizes and support awarded
• 2 days of workshops, mentorship, and pitching

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Meet the Winners

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Third Place: Team 6 - Durham Express Line

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This team consists of the following students:

• Amaan Adil Durrani, Ontario Tech University
• Ayaan Ahmed, Ontario Tech University
• Shagufta Shaikh, Ontario Tech University
• Kelly Diep, Centennial College
• Jeffrey Wong, University of Toronto Scarborough

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Project summary: Proposed adoption of an elevated sky train system with modifications designed to improve commute efficiency between Durham and the rest of the Greater Toronto Area. 

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Second Place: Team 5 - EcoCommute

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This team consists of the following students:

• Aisha Chaudhry, Ontario Tech University
• Anindita Winny Perwitasari, University of Toronto Scarborough
• Mariam Samad, University of Toronto Scarborough
• Daniel Baba, Ontario Tech University

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Project summary: Designed a gamified app that partners with institutions to reward post-secondary students for using public transit while collecting data to help optimize public transportation routes and services. 

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First Place: Team 4 - De-Icing Strategy

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This team consists of the following students:

• Eisha Aqeel, Ontario Tech University
• Ese Omonoyan, Ontario Tech University
• Kun-Ying Queenie Wang, University of Toronto Scarborough
• Caren Eissa, Ontario Tech University
• Inshal Chauhdry, Ontario Tech University

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Project summary: Developed an AI-powered system that optimized road de-icing by analyzing route, weather, and sensor data to reduce salt usage and environmental damage. 

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Thank you to all the students, mentors, judges, and the Earth District team for contributing to the broader conversation around building smarter communities that address real climate challenges and engage diverse stakeholders.

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