The aim of the ‘Mérite Jeunesse’ award is to encourage young people between 14 and 25 to involve themselves in four different areas: sport, talent, volunteer work, and expedition. On Tuesday, some 100 young people were awarded their very own ‘Mérite Jeunesse’. The 2022 ceremony took place under the patronage of Hereditary Grande Duke Guillaume and in the presence of Prince Guillaume, the brother of Grand Duke Henri.
Prince Guillaume is also the president of the ‘Mérite Jeunesse’ Council. The idea for the ‘Mérite Jeunesse’ was inspired by the UK’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, founded by the Queen’s late husband, Prince Philip. At the time, then Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg pushed for a similar concept to be introduced in the Grand Duchy as well.
Speaking to our colleagues from RTL Télé, many of the young laureates stated that they are very happy to have received the ‘Mérite Jeunesse’, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic often threw a wrench into their plans over the past two years.
Young people between the ages of 14 and 25 can register for the Award at a licenced Award Unit, which can be their school or a local organisation. They are then able to choose an Award Leader, who will help them plan their individual programme and set their goals. There are three different Award levels that interested candidates can register for: bronze, silver, and gold.
