Youth Justice Services in Ontario have undergone massive transformation over the last decade, bringing us to today, where we have a system that is separate from the adult correctional system and focused on meeting the unique needs of youth. The Youth Justice system holds youth accountable for their offending behaviour while focusing on the root causes of crime in order to keep communities safe. It also provides prevention and meaningful consequences, allowing youth the opportunity to make better choices and go on to become productive adults.

JoAnn Miller-Reid is the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Youth Justice Services Division, Ministry of Children and Youth Services in Ontario. Over the course of her career, JoAnn has worked in both adult and youth corrections focussing on rehabilitation and contributing to community safety through effective programming. JoAnn provided leadership to the transformation of the youth justice system in Ontario and remains focussed on continuous improvement to achieve the youth justice mission of making a difference for children and youth at risk in Ontario by improving outcomes through supporting a continuum of evidence- based programming and building strong partnerships with youth, families, communities and governments.