Newsletter - August 12, 2026
Dear friends and neighbours,
Today is International Youth Day, an opportunity to recognize the contributions of young Canadians and the important role they play in shaping our communities and our country.
Here in Oakville East, I see the energy and ambition of young people in our schools, workplaces, and community organizations. As the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program enters its final few weeks, I want to highlight the opportunities our government is creating to help our youth gain experience, build skills, and take their next steps.
This year, over 100,000 Canada Summer Jobs opportunities were made available to young Canadians Here in Oakville East, 349 young people were employed through the CSJ program. These jobs provide more than a summer paycheque. They give young people valuable work experience, new skills, and connections that can help them build their careers.
We are also continuing to make education and training more affordable. For the 2026–2027 school year, the Government of Canada is maintaining the 40 per cent increase to Canada Student Grants and the increased Canada Student Loan limit of $300 per week , ensuring students have the financial supports and resources they need to succeed, build meaningful careers, and contribute to a strong and resilient workforce.
We are also supporting 55,000 work-integrated learning opportunities for post-secondary students and more than 20,000 additional skills and work experience opportunities through the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. These investments are helping young Canadians prepare for a changing economy.
As we look toward the rest of the summer, there are also opportunities for young Canadians and families to experience more of our country.
The Canada Strong Pass provides free or discounted admission at participating Parks Canada sites, museums, galleries, and VIA Rail until September 7. Young adults aged 18 to 24 can receive discounts on VIA Rail and participating museums, while children and youth can benefit from free admission and travel in many cases.
The Pass is also about connecting Canadians from coast to coast to coast, the importance of which is reflected in our government’s recently announced $1.95 billion investment to renew VIA Rail’s long-distance, regional, and remote locomotive fleet, while bringing passenger locomotive assembly back to Canada. The project will support approximately 1,200 direct and indirect jobs and strengthen Canadian manufacturing.
On International Youth Day, I want to recognize the young people across Oakville East who are already making a difference in our community. I will continue working to ensure they have the opportunities, skills, and support they need to build a strong future.
Sincerely yours,
Hon. Anita Anand,
Member of Parliament, Oakville East
International Youth Day
This International Youth Day, we are celebrating the young people who are shaping the future of Oakville East and Canada. We are committed to supporting youth through opportunities that help them learn, grow, and succeed.
Click here to watch my International Youth Day Instagram Reel.
Upcoming Trade Mission to India
Canadian businesses are invited to participate in the Team Canada Trade Mission to India from October 12–17, 2026, led by my colleague, Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu.
This mission will help Canadian organizations build partnerships, explore new opportunities, and strengthen trade ties with one of the world's fastest-growing markets. Application deadline is August 30, 2026.
Click here to learn more.
Opening the Canadian Embassy in Benin
Canada has a new home in Cotonou. On the first visit to Benin by a Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister Corinne Amori Brunet and I opened our new embassy and marked a major step forward in a relationship built over 64 years.
Constituency Office Services
My Constituency Office on Robinson Street is always available to assist with any issues you are having with federal government agencies.
If you are having trouble processing an immigration application, getting your passport, or even having issues with your taxes — my wonderful staff is always there to help!
We offer assistance with:
1. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
2. Service Canada
3. Canada Revenue Agency
4. Passport Canada
5. Canada Border Services Agency
6. Immigration Refugee Board of Canada
7. Veterans Affairs Canada
8. Birthday, anniversary and commemorative certificates from myself or Prime Minister Carney
You can also contact my Constituency Office to share feedback about any policy issues, request a Canadian flag or pin, or connect about a local event.