Press Release

Toronto Port Authority expands leadership in combatting human trafficking with #NotInMyCity at Port of Toronto and Outer Harbour Marina

Toronto · July 7, 2026

Building on a successful program at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Toronto Port Authority becomes the first port and marina operator in Canada to partner with #NotInMyCity, extending critical awareness and prevention efforts across all its transportation assets.

The Toronto Port Authority is strengthening its commitment to preventing human trafficking by expanding its partnership with #NotInMyCity to include the Port of Toronto and the Outer Harbour Marina. This milestone builds on the success of the awareness and education program launched at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport in January 2023 and marks a significant evolution of the organization’s role as a transportation ally in the fight against human trafficking.

Founded by country superstar Paul Brandt, #NotInMyCity is a facilitative organization that is raising awareness and taking collective action to prevent, disrupt and end sexual exploitation and trafficking, focusing on children and youth. Within the transportation sector, the initiative is widely recognized as a leading force in addressing human trafficking risks across several sectors nationwide.

This expansion represents a first-of-its-kind initiative: The implementation of #NotInMyCity’s program within both a marine port and a marina environment, further underscoring the Toronto Port Authority’s leadership in bringing anti-trafficking efforts to new areas of the transportation network.

As a transportation ally, the Toronto Port Authority will introduce a mandatory e-learning program for employees, tenants, and partners operating at the Port of Toronto and the Outer Harbour Marina. The program equips participants with essential knowledge about human trafficking in Canada, including how to recognize warning signs of exploitation and how to respond safely and appropriately without placing individuals at further risk.

“Transportation hubs play a critical role in communities, and with that comes a shared responsibility for public safety,” said RJ Steenstra, President and CEO, Toronto Port Authority. “By expanding this partnership beyond our airport to include our port and marina operations, we are taking meaningful action to equip more people with the awareness and tools to recognize and help disrupt human trafficking activity in the City of Toronto and surrounding region.”

“Traffickers rely on anonymity, and they find it wherever people are moving — including our ports and marinas. This expansion by the Toronto Port Authority is a landmark moment, and it reflects exactly the kind of bold, sector-wide thinking that creates real change," said Paul Brandt, Founder and CEO, #NotInMyCity. We’re proud to stand alongside them as they bring this work to every corner of Canada’s transportation landscape.”

About the Toronto Port Authority

The Toronto Port Authority owns and operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which welcomes approximately two million passengers and generates approximately $2 billion in economic impact per year; the Outer Harbour Marina, one of Canada’s largest freshwater marinas; and the marine Port of Toronto, which facilitates businesses such as marine shipping, cargo services and passenger cruises to generate approximately $460 million in economic activity annually. Since 1911, and in its role as a city builder, the Toronto Port Authority has worked with partners and every level of government to enhance Toronto’s transportation infrastructure and economic growth. The Toronto Port Authority is committed to fostering strong, healthy and sustainable communities, and has invested more than $30 million in recent years to fund charitable initiatives and environmental programs that benefit communities along Toronto's waterfront and beyond.

The Toronto Port Authority is a federal agency and operates in accordance with the Canada Marine Act. It is guided by a Board of Directors that includes representation from all three levels of government.

About #NotInMyCity

Led by Paul Brandt, #NotInMyCityis a powerful movement dedicated to ending sexual exploitation and human trafficking in Canada, with special focus on protecting our children and youth. United with key partners, we’re spreading awareness, education communities, and deploying a strategic plan for real, lasting change. Dive into our interactive e-learning course, crafted alongside global experts, to deepen your understanding of these critical issues. This free, 30 -minute journey equips you with vital knowledge and concludes with a certificate of completion. Join the thousands who’ve already taken a stand with us. Together, let’s create a safer future for all. #NotInMyCity- change starts here. In Canada, anyone can call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010 if they believe they witness or are experiencing human trafficking or sexual exploitation. If anyone is in immediate danger, it is recommended to call 9-1-1. To learn more visit notinmycity.ca.

-30-