MEGARENew initiative aims to transform Gare neighbourhood into a hub for children and diversity

On Thursday, 16 January, 2025, the City of Luxembourg, in collaboration with UP_FOUNDATION, launched the ‘MEGARE – Zesumme grouss ginn am Quartier Gare’ project. This initiative aims to transform the Gare neighbourhood into a vibrant, inclusive community by placing children’s positive development at its core and celebrating the area’s rich cultural diversity.

MEGARE’s mission is to nurture children’s growth through innovative educational programs, build an active network of community stakeholders, and promote the value of cultural diversity. The project is designed to empower young residents, encourage their participation in neighbourhood life, and strengthen social cohesion across the community.

At its launch, the project will roll out with two initial programmes:

• Friendly Guides: A child-led mentorship program that pairs newly arrived children in Luxembourg with trained local “buddy guides.” These young guides help newcomers adapt to their new environment, easing the transition and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Mini-Entdecker Club: This programme engages children in interactive tours of the Gare district, encouraging them to explore their surroundings and share their insights. The perspectives and ideas gathered from these young explorers will directly shape future MEGARE projects.

The Gare neighborhood is one of Luxembourg City’s most densely populated areas, home to approximately 11,400 residents – 82% of whom are of foreign origin. Among them are 830 children under the age of 14, representing more than 120 nationalities. These young residents embody the cultural mosaic of the neighbourhood and act as ambassadors for unity, showing that diversity can be a powerful driver of solidarity and mutual respect.