In this powerful episode of the Engage416 Podcast, we dive deep into the real challenges young people face in gang-affected communities and explore how mental health, access to support, and mindset transformation are key to breaking free from the grip of violence.

Our special guest, Khalil Dorival, shares his remarkable journey of personal transformation—from the depths of gang life to becoming a champion for mental health and community empowerment. Khalil opens up about his own experiences growing up in a marginalized, racialized neighborhood, facing mental health struggles, and eventually finding the strength to turn his life around. Now, he's on a mission to help others do the same.

Khalil discusses the critical importance of accessible mental health care, the need for safe spaces where young people can open up, and the transformative power of sharing one's story. He also highlights the systemic issues that prevent young people from breaking out of destructive cycles, like lack of support, generational trauma, and economic disparity.

This episode is not just about surviving, but about rising above adversity, finding hope, and offering solutions. Khalil's message is one of empowerment: "It takes the community to support the community."

Whether you're someone working in community service, law enforcement, education, or simply someone who cares about the future of our youth, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about how we can prevent gang involvement and support young people in need.

Download and listen now to hear Khalil's incredible story, and discover how we can all be part of the solution to ending the cycle of violence.