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Toronto Police Service Officer Honoured with Heroes Beyond the Badge Award
for Empowering Youth Through Theatre Kidz n’ Cops Drama and Dance Program
For Immediate Release: March 18, 2026
(Toronto, ON) – The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), in partnership with General Motors and OnStar Canada, is proud to recognize the outstanding work of Constable Amanda Hypolite with the Heroes Beyond the Badge Award. The latest award recipient is being celebrated for her leadership in creating Theatre Kidz n’ Cops, a drama and dance program which has redefined youth engagement and community connection in the North Rexdale–Mount Olive area, quickly distinguishing itself as a powerful and much-needed initiative.
The Heroes Beyond the Badge Program honours an individual or team in a police service whose contributions to policing excellence deserves to be known and appreciated. Individuals and/or teams are recognized for the things beyond “operational” duties that police officers and personnel do to support their colleagues and communities.
Theatre Kidz n’ Cops was established when Constable Hypolite identified a critical service gap in the community: while athletic programs were abundant, accessible arts programming was largely absent. She responded with vision and purpose, using the performing arts as a universal and inclusive tool to engage youth who may not otherwise find a space where they belong.
Through their participation in theatre, young program participants developed confidence, discipline, communication skills, and a sense of shared accomplishment. The program engaged elementary and secondary students in acting, dance, music, and movement while integrating academic learning through set and costume design, music education, and physical activity. Weekly rehearsals emphasized teamwork, perseverance, and leadership, values reinforced through positive interactions with police officers participating alongside students.
In 2025, Theatre Kidz n’ Cops successfully put on a full-scale production of The Lion King Jr. – a direct reflection of the program’s exceptional impact, strong community demand, and Constable Hypolite’s ability to deliver meaningful, sustainable change.
Inclusivity has been a defining strength of Constable Hypolite’s approach. Young participants who chose not to perform were empowered through essential behind-the-scenes roles such as stage management, design, scripting, and facilitation. Every participant was given ownership, responsibility, and a voice.
Constable Hypolite’s personal commitment was extraordinary as she devoted extensive time beyond her duties, drawing on her professional background in visual arts and dance to provide a high-quality, inspiring experience. Program participants demonstrated remarkable growth in confidence, behavior, and aspiration, with several connecting to further arts mentorship opportunities.
Theatre Kidz n’ Cops has become more than a program – it is a model for how creativity, inclusion, and leadership can build trust, inspire youth, and strengthen communities.
Constable Hypolite continues to keep the community in her focus through unique theatrical outreach adventures alongside the various responsibilities she holds as an officer of the Toronto Police Service, exemplifying the spirit and impact this award is meant to recognize. The OACP and General Motors OnStar Canada are proud to honour Constable Amanda Hypolite as a true hero beyond the badge.
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Quotes:
“Finding new and innovative ways to connect with individuals and groups in our communities is not an easy thing for our officers to do. Their regular duties can be challenging and their time limited. But Constable Hypolite exemplifies how so many police members go above-and-beyond to make a truly amazing impact in the communities they serve. We are proud to recognize her as a true hero beyond the badge.”
Chief Mark Campbell
President, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police
“We are proud that the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police is recognizing a member of the Toronto Police Service for her outstanding work. By engaging with youth, she helps build strong relationships that extend far beyond a single interaction and fosters confidence young people can carry forward. Our communities are stronger and safer because of her leadership and dedication.”
Chief Myron Demkiw
Toronto Police Service
“Congratulations to Constable Hypolite for going above and beyond to create a program that encourages youth to lean into their creativity and express themselves through the arts. Programs like this prove that there is something for everyone to learn, grow and build community. Creating a space for young people to express themselves artistically helps to shape the future of Toronto – and the leaders of tomorrow. Thank you, Constable Hype, for your continued dedication and service to the young people of this city.
OnStar has worked with First Responders for more than 20 years to help keep our communities safe, whether it’s a crash, a vehicle theft, or a crisis situation, OnStar is proud to work with public safety professionals. Together, we help save lives and make a difference in the communities they protect and serve. We celebrate all their efforts, and what they sacrifice to keep us safe every day.
Charlene Poranganel
General Motors Public Safety Engagement Lead
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