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CARSP Conference 2025 Editorial – Liraz Fridman (incoming CARSP President)

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A Memorable Gathering in Quebec City: Reflections from the CARSP Conference

This year’s CARSP Conference in Quebec City was an inspiring experience filled with innovation, connection, and purpose. Several standout moments left a lasting impact on me:

  • The Young Professionals Committee (YPC) Mentorship Program created a dynamic space for meaningful dialogue between mentors and mentees, fostering knowledge exchange and strengthening the future of road safety leadership.
  • The Vision Zero Walkshop was truly a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. Strolling through Quebec City alongside a councillor and a landscape architect offered an eye-opening view of how urban design can transform communities. Kudos to Hervé, Philippe, and the Parachute team for curating such an engaging and educational event.
  • Keynote by Ian Lockwood was a personal highlight. His insights on the power of language in shaping road safety narratives—and the compelling examples of people-centered infrastructure—reinforced the role of design in reviving community life.

As the Road Safety Supervisor for the City of Guelph, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with passionate partners across Canada. Through CARSP, we’ve built bridges between sectors, sparking ideas and actions that truly make a difference.

I’m driven by a commitment to equity, inclusive leadership, and amplifying youth voices. Looking ahead, I want to continue the exceptional work of our current president, sharpen our focus on Canada’s role in the Global Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, and expand partnerships that unite engineering, public health, and enforcement.

Road safety is a right—not a privilege. It should be available to all, regardless of neighborhood, age, ability, or language. Together, we can lead the way in building an equitable and sustainable transportation landscape.

My academic background—including a PhD from York University and postdoctoral fellowships at SickKids Toronto and the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute—grounded me in evidence-based approaches to speed management. Now, in the municipal realm, I’m committed to translating that knowledge into practical, real-world solutions.

As CARSP President, my goal is to deepen collaboration across government, academia, and engineering—to advance impactful evaluations and elevate the effectiveness of road safety programs across Canada.

Let’s continue this important journey—together.

Liraz Fridman, CARSP President