City of Calgary Announces Winners of 2026 Travel Safe Student Video Contest

The City of Calgary has announced the winners of its 2026 Travel Safe Student Video Contest, showcasing innovative ideas from students aimed at improving road and pathway safety across the city.

The annual contest invites K–12 students to create short videos promoting safer travel behaviours, encouraging young voices to contribute to community safety. Organizers say the initiative continues to play a key role in raising awareness, especially as traffic incidents remain a concern in Calgary.

Jacquelyn Oriold, an education specialist in mobility safety, emphasized the importance of student perspectives, noting that young people often experience roads and pathways differently than adults. Their creativity, she said, helps foster a culture of safety that extends beyond classrooms into families and communities.

Public Showcase Event

Finalist entries were presented during a public viewing event at the Calgary Central Library, where winners were officially announced and recognized for their contributions.

2026 Contest Winners

Division I (Grades K–3)

• Safety Superhero Zara
• By Zara Osuala (Grade K)
• School: St. Hubert School

Division II (Grades 4–6)

• Pedestrian Safety With Albert
• By Albert Akl (Grade 5)
• School: École St. Teresa of Calcutta School

Division III (Grades 7–9)

• How to Stay Safe When Crossing
• By Anika Rebus and Sophie Smith (Grade 8)
• Schools: Calgary French & International School and École St. Marguerite Bourgeoys

Division IV (Grades 10–12)

• Driving Is a Privilege
• By Ryan Zerger (Grade 11)
• School: Henry Wise Wood High School

Classroom Submission Winner

• Horizon Leadership Academy — Grade 4 Class

Outstanding Video Winners

• Pedestrian Safety: Savannah Allen (Our Lady of the Evergreens School, Grade 6)
• Speed Safety: Mfoniso Eyo Ayokunmi Ayodeji, Jayla Mattinson, Andrea Ramirez (Madeleine d’Houet School)
• Distracted Travel: Zoe Hunter (Robert Warren School, Grade 7)
• Cycling & Wheeling Safety: Karsten Van Den Berg (Master’s Academy, Grade 12)

Prizes and Recognition

Each division winner received a $1,000 gift card to choose from a range of prizes, including sports equipment, bikes, scooters, and safety gear from local retailers. Winners could also opt for family attraction packages or enroll in travel safety programs such as driving lessons or cycling training.

The classroom winner was awarded $1,000 toward a field trip or class celebration, while outstanding category winners each received $500.

Encouraging Safer Communities

The contest continues to highlight the role of youth in shaping safer urban environments. By combining creativity with real-world safety challenges, the initiative not only educates students but also encourages broader community engagement in reducing traffic-related risks.

With strong participation and impactful ideas, the 2026 edition reinforces how student-led initiatives can contribute to meaningful change on Calgary’s streets and pathways.

Courtesy: The City of Calgary Newsroom