International acclaimTake Off show wins prestigious first prize at Venice TV Award

Tom Nols
adapted for RTL Today
The science show aimed at young people has received international recognition, taking home first prize in the 'Cross Platform' category at the Venice TV Awards.
De Joseph Rodesch an den Olivier Catani an Aktioun bei "Take Off".
Joseph Rodesch and Olivier Catani in action on "Take Off".
© Emmanuel Claude / Freelens

The Venice TV Awards were recently held, where Take Off The Science Challenge Show was announced as the winner in the "Cross Platform" category.

The Luxembourg-based programme, which introduces young audiences to the world of science in an engaging and accessible way, claimed the top prize among tough international competition.

The Take Off team lead expressed their delight at receiving such a highly praised international award.

What the award means for science in Luxembourg

Joseph Rodesch, widely recognised as 'Mr. Science' of the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR), emphasised that the award marks a milestone for Luxembourg's science communication efforts.

He pointed out that it is especially meaningful because the recognition comes from a jury of television professionals rather than scientists, demonstrating that the programme has succeeded in reaching audiences beyond dedicated science enthusiasts.

This broad appeal has always been the team's aim: to present science in a way that is both exciting and entertaining, inspiring as wide an audience as possible.

He added that the award provides a significant boost of motivation for everyone involved in the project.

Hannert de Kulisse vun "Take Off".
"Take Off" behind the scenes.
© Freelens (Emmanuel Claude)

Behind the scenes: local expertise on an international stage

Yann Figuet, director of production company Freelens, underlined the importance of the win for Luxembourg's media industry, describing it as proof that local expertise and passionate professionals can meet the highest international standards.

Over the programme's four seasons, Freelens has tackled a new production challenge for Luxembourg, mobilising exceptional human, technical, and creative resources for a show of this scale.

Figuet also described Take Off as a true research and development effort, with game mechanics and technical solutions conceived and produced entirely in Luxembourg.

The award is a tribute to the more than 50 audiovisual professionals and the network of local partners who have worked together since the show's inception.

For Figuet, the accolade is a strong endorsement not only for the team, but also for Freelens and the 'Made in Luxembourg' brand, which once again shows its ability to stand out internationally.

Wärend den Opnamen an der Produktioun vun "Take Off".
During the filming and production of the "Take Off" show.
© Freelens (Emmanuel Claude)

Inspiring the next generation

Daniela Ragni, CEO of the André Losch Foundation, which supports the programme, highlighted that Take Off demonstrates what can be achieved when young people are trusted and given a platform.

She considers the award as recognition not only of the show's quality but, above all, of the young participants, who have shown talent and potential, and who have grown throughout the experience.

D'Ekipp vun "Take Off" huet all Grond ze laachen.
The "Take Off" team has every reason to smile: Lucie Zeches, Olivier Catani and Joseph Rodesch.
© Freelens (Emmanuel Claude)

You can find every Take Off episode here.

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