REPCO

As the excitement builds for the Luxembourg Song Contest on January 25th, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Carmen and Diego from Rhythmic Soulwave, a soulful six-piece band making waves with their unique blend of rhythm, jazz, and camaraderie. Representing one of Luxembourg’s most diverse and passionate musical acts, they’re vying for a chance to showcase their talents on the grand Eurovision stage. The band, born from the vibrant connections formed at the Conservatory of Luxembourg, brings together musicians from varied backgrounds, all united by a shared love of music. Their contest entry, Stronger, is a labor of love, creativity, and resilience. Written by Carmen during a challenging period in her life, the song has transformed into an uplifting anthem of empowerment, thanks to the band's collaborative energy and the production finesse of Carmen’s sister, Naomi. While balancing rehearsals, day jobs, and the contest’s demands, the band has embraced every moment of this journey. “It’s been intense, but good intense,” Carmen shares, reflecting on the whirlwind of interviews and production meetings. Diego adds, “We’re incredibly proud of this song and the magic we’ve created together. Playing it live is a joy.” Their journey is more than just music, it’s about celebrating diversity and unity. “Luxembourg has given us so much,” Carmen reflects. “We want to showcase how different backgrounds, ages, and perspectives can come together to create something beautiful.” As Rhythmic Soulwave gears up for the final, they promise an unforgettable performance that captures the essence of Luxembourg’s multicultural spirit.

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We’re continuing with the stories about Luxembourgish Nobel Prize winners: Gabriel Lippmann can proudly claim the title of one of the pioneers bagging the award in 1908 – for figuring out how to reproduce colours in photos using a special effect called interference. But that’s not all. Before his big breakthrough, Lippmann made some fascinating discoveries in physics, including how electricity and tiny capillary tubes work together. This led him to invent the Lippmann electrometer, which was actually used in the very first ECG machine! His story shows that sometimes, life leads us in surprising directions, guiding us from what we think we want to what we were meant to do all along. Find out more at www.bourgmeisterin.com!

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A new and innovative book project set to captivate readers of all ages is coming from Rotondes. Blurring the lines between traditional literature and interactive art, the book offers a vibrant visual exploration reminiscent of "Where’s Waldo?" but with a unique storytelling twist. Lucie explains how the idea for this visual masterpiece was born out of a desire to showcase the dynamic life and activities happening at Rotondes. The book not only highlights daily experiences but captures personal stories and characters, providing a seamless narrative journey through its colourful pages. Finding the right artist to bring this concept to life was no small feat. Lucie recounts how they selected Viktoria Mladenovski, whose artistic talent and creative vision perfectly aligned with their goals. Viktoria immersed herself in the Rotondes community, meeting team members and participating in activities to authentically represent the lively spirit of Rotondes in her illustrations. What makes this book truly special is its universality. With no text, readers from diverse backgrounds and ages can engage with the artwork and interpret the stories in their own way. Children in local schools were given early glimpses, and their feedback highlighted themes of inclusivity, individuality, and joy—a testament to the book’s powerful visual storytelling. As Lucie shares plans for the book’s release, she reflects on the joy and challenges of editing down countless fun and meaningful moments for inclusion. With its January 26th debut, this visual adventure promises to be a treasure trove of discovery and inspiration.

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Laura Thorn is an emerging Luxembourg talent preparing to compete in the Luxembourg Song Contest. From teaching at the conservatory to stepping into the international music scene, Laura opens up about her unexpected journey and the whirlwind experience so far. She was not planning to enter the contest but an unexpected message from a Parisian producer changed her plans, leading her to embrace this opportunity. Despite initial hesitations, her passion for music and the captivating French-language song drew her in. Laura shares the song's powerful message of transformation and empowerment, inspired by a beloved classic from 60 years ago, and explores how it connects past traditions to a modern vision of independence and strength. The conversation delves into her multi-lingual background and the surprising challenges of singing in French compared to English. Laura reflects on the technical demands of perfecting every note and word! She is excited and nervous as she anticipates the first rehearsals and faces the challenge of performing for a massive audience. With charm and candid honesty, she offers a rare glimpse into the dedication and artistry that goes into crafting a memorable performance on such a grand stage.

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Jon is back to let you know who is playing in 2025 before returning to the weekly guide next Wednesday. Who will you go and see this year?

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From teaching to tech! Discover Hannah Boughton’s inspiring career shift to data science and educational technology. The interview is part of our interview series on Women in STEM —don’t miss her story!

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Indonesia has launched a bold free meal program to fight malnutrition, initially benefiting 570,000 schoolchildren and pregnant women in 20 provinces. The scheme will expand to include millions more this year and nearly 83 million people by 2029, nearly a third of the population. Meals feature locally sourced items like rice, chicken, tofu, beans, fruit, and milk, supporting both nutrition and regional economies. Schools distribute meals to children, while public kitchens cater to pregnant women, with military resources assisting in preparation and logistics. Despite its promise, the initiative under President Prabowo Subianto faces financial scrutiny. Costs are estimated at €27–€45 billion over five years, raising concerns about its impact on Indonesia’s fiscal health. Experts also question the program's long-term sustainability and food quality. However, parents, many of whom struggle to provide meals for their children, have warmly welcomed the effort. The program represents a significant step toward addressing hunger while sparking debate about its broader implications.

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Indonesia has launched a bold free meal program to fight malnutrition, initially benefiting 570,000 schoolchildren and pregnant women in 20 provinces. The scheme will expand to include millions more this year and nearly 83 million people by 2029, nearly a third of the population. Meals feature locally sourced items like rice, chicken, tofu, beans, fruit, and milk, supporting both nutrition and regional economies. Schools distribute meals to children, while public kitchens cater to pregnant women, with military resources assisting in preparation and logistics. Despite its promise, the initiative under President Prabowo Subianto faces financial scrutiny. Costs are estimated at €27–€45 billion over five years, raising concerns about its impact on Indonesia’s fiscal health. Experts also question the program's long-term sustainability and food quality. However, parents, many of whom struggle to provide meals for their children, have warmly welcomed the effort. The program represents a significant step toward addressing hunger while sparking debate about its broader implications.

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MÄNA is one of the seven hopefuls competing in the Luxembourg Song Contest on 25th January. The winner will go on to represent Luxembourg in Basel for the Eurovision Song Contest. Despite the demands of her final year at university and a stressful move, MÄNA was drawn to join the competition by a song that resonated deeply with her experiences. “It perfectly described what I was going through,” she shares. MÄNA's musical journey began with classical training, mastering the violin and flute before turning to vocals at age 14. While classically trained, she thrives in pop-rock performances and loves the creative freedom singing offers. "Singing feels like a rebellion — perfection isn’t the goal, it’s about expression," she explains. In the interview, MÄNA delves into the importance of separating her stage persona, MÄNA, from her private life as Alexia. She likens herself to "Hannah Montana," using her stage alter ego to channel a confident, extroverted version of herself. When asked about her mysterious staging for the upcoming performance, Mina promises an unforgettable show: "I’m keeping people on their toes, but it’s going to be mysterious and thrilling." Representing Luxembourg on such a grand stage is a point of pride for Mina, who wants the world to know that despite its size, Luxembourg is brimming with creative talent.

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Discover inspiring stories in our new interview series on women in STEM. Join us Tuesdays at 9:40 AM for interviews with trailblazers in science, engineering, and tech. This first episode features space engineer Tecla Trifilò.

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While we often highlight stories of global impact—fighting poverty, medical breakthroughs, or environmental initiatives—today’s What's Right With the World is a bit lighter yet no less impressive. Lady Gaga has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming only the third artist in history to have multiple No. 1 songs across three different decades. She now joins the exclusive club with Michael and Janet Jackson. Gaga’s chart-topping journey includes iconic hits like Just Dance and Poker Face (2009), Born This Way (2011), Shallow(2019), and Rain On Me (2020). Her latest triumph, Die With A Smile, a collaboration with Bruno Mars, recently climbed to No. 1 after a five-month run. The achievement is especially striking, as few artists manage multiple hits per decade—a feat Elton John, surprisingly, has not accomplished. Reflecting on her success, Gaga shared her gratitude on Instagram: “Thank you for listening and dancing and making your art along with mine.” Looking ahead, fans eagerly await her seventh album, LG7, set to release this year. The lead single, Disease, offers a taste of the “true chaos” promised in what’s shaping up to be one of 2025’s most anticipated albums. Lady Gaga’s journey continues to inspire as she cements her legacy in music history.

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In this engaging segment of the PwC People Pulse, Olivier and Begga discuss the exciting philanthropic work behind their corporate foundation. The conversation centres around the foundation's mission to give back to the Luxembourg community and beyond, with a particular focus on education, culture, and humanitarian aid. Olivier, part of the foundation’s leadership, shares insights into the structured, professional approach the firm has taken to formalize their charitable initiatives, moving beyond informal pro-bono work and into a more impactful, organized space. Begga, who heads the cultural committee, gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the foundation's projects. One notable example is the support of a cross-border cultural initiative designed to foster artistic production and provide residency opportunities for digital artists in Luxembourg and the surrounding regions. Begga also discusses the foundation's commitment to making culture accessible, particularly for underprivileged or immigrant communities in Luxembourg. In addition to cultural initiatives, the foundation is equally passionate about supporting education through projects which aim to provide equal educational opportunities to individuals from diverse backgrounds. The discussion also highlights the foundation’s work in humanitarian aid, such as providing assistance to regions devastated by flooding in Spain. Olivier and Begga share personal motivations for being involved in these philanthropic efforts, with Olivier reflecting on his own beginnings and the importance of creating opportunities for younger generations.

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Women and minorities are being uplifted in the new podcast collaboration between WeSTEM and ARA City Radio. Originally founded in 2022 as Girls in Tech Luxembourg, the organization rebranded as Women Excel in Stem (WeSTEM) after the closure of the global Girls in Tech network. This rebranding allowed them to broaden their mission to include not just technology, but also science, engineering, and mathematics — all fields where women and minorities remain vastly underrepresented. Patricia and Vasiliki dive into WeSTEM's wide range of initiatives designed to make STEM careers more accessible and equitable. These include mentorship programs for women looking to advance their careers, technical workshops, and an exciting new robotics course for young people from underrepresented groups. The organization’s goal is to help participants, whether they’re children, career changers, or seasoned professionals, overcome barriers and build confidence in STEM fields. Patricia and Vasiliki also touched on the challenges women face, including deep-seated biases, imposter syndrome, and the lack of women in leadership roles. WeSTEM is tackling these issues head-on by offering mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities to break through those barriers. They also teased the upcoming launch of a 12-episode podcast series where women in STEM will share their stories, struggles, and triumphs — offering inspiration and practical advice for others looking to follow in their footsteps. The first episode is set to air on the 7th January, giving listeners an inside look at how women navigate and thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.

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Brazil’s Bolsa Familia program, which provides monthly cash payments starting at $120 to families below the poverty line, has long been celebrated for lifting millions out of poverty. New research now highlights its significant health benefits, particularly in reducing tuberculosis (TB), the world’s deadliest infectious disease. A study in Nature Medicine examined 54 million impoverished Brazilians and found TB cases and deaths dropped by over 50%—and by more than 60% in Indigenous populations—among families receiving cash transfers. The program’s conditions, such as mandatory health checkups and school attendance, aim to break poverty cycles by improving health, education, and access to essentials like food and housing. For TB, overcrowded, poorly ventilated living conditions and malnutrition fuel its spread. Cash assistance enables families to afford better housing and diets, improving immunity and reducing exposure to TB bacteria. Regular health checkups also facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. Over two decades, Bolsa Familia has reduced child mortality, improved nutrition, and avoided millions of hospitalizations. Globally, similar programs have shown benefits: a study in 37 low- and middle-income countries linked cash transfers to a 20% drop in adult women’s mortality risk, with costs of just $11,000 per life saved—a highly cost-effective intervention. At $2 billion per month, Bolsa Familia is more than an economic program; it’s a transformative health initiative. As cash transfer models expand worldwide, policymakers can learn from its success in addressing poverty and public health together.

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New York City has launched the first congestion charge scheme in the U.S., targeting traffic south of Central Park. Drivers entering the zone during peak hours face fees up to $9 (£7) per day, with higher rates for larger vehicles like trucks and buses. Off-peak charges start at $2.25. The zone covers landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Wall Street. The initiative aims to ease traffic congestion and fund billions for public transportation improvements. The plan has sparked controversy, with critics like former President Donald Trump calling it a "cash grab." Local Republicans and suburban representatives also oppose the scheme, but it has already taken effect. Proponents argue it’s essential: Manhattan’s downtown was recently named the world’s most congested urban zone, with peak morning speeds averaging just 11 mph (17 km/h). Will this reduce traffic or simply generate revenue? Only time will tell. Still, it’s a bold step toward addressing air quality and gridlock in a city known for both. Whether or not it solves the problem entirely, it’s a start—and one that reflects growing global interest in sustainable urban solutions.

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A remarkable dinosaur track way has been unearthed in an Oxfordshire quarry, marking the UK’s largest discovery of its kind. The site features approximately 200 footprints dating back 166 million years, left by two dinosaurs: the plant-eating Cetiosaurus and the meat-eating Megalosaurus. The longest track ways span up to 150 meters, with more tracks possibly hidden underground. Gary Johnson, a quarry worker, first noticed the patterns, realizing their significance. Last summer, over 100 scientists, students, and volunteers excavated the site, revealing five distinct track ways. Four belonged to sauropods, whose elephantine footprints reflect their massive size of up to 18 meters long. The fifth, a three-toed track way, was left by the agile, carnivorous Megalosaurus, measuring 6–9 meters. The site was once a shallow, warm lagoon where mud preserved the footprints, likely buried during a storm. Researchers used 3D modeling and casts to analyze the prints, uncovering unique insights into dinosaur behavior. In one instance, a sauropod’s path was crossed by a Megalosaurus, suggesting dynamic interactions. The discovery offers a rare glimpse into Jurassic life, with discussions ongoing to preserve the site and uncover its remaining secrets.

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Belgium has become the first EU country to ban the sale of disposable vapes, citing health and environmental concerns. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke emphasized that inexpensive vapes often lure teenagers into nicotine addiction, saying, “Nicotine makes you addicted. Nicotine is bad for your health. These are facts.” He also highlighted the environmental burden of disposable vapes, which generate plastic waste, hazardous chemicals, and unrecyclable batteries. Unlike reusable vapes, which can help smokers quit, disposables were targeted for their addictive nature and environmental harm. Belgium’s move aligns with global trends; earlier this year, Australia implemented some of the world’s strictest vaping restrictions. Belgium’s decision has garnered some support, even among vape retailers. A shop owner noted, “The batteries in disposables still work after use, but can’t be recharged, leading to significant pollution.” While the ban might seem like a financial blow to the industry, retailers are optimistic. Many predict a shift toward reusable, eco-friendly alternatives like pod systems, which are pre-filled and easily rechargeable. Vandenbroucke hopes Belgium’s leadership will inspire EU-wide action, urging the European Commission to modernize tobacco laws and adopt tougher measures against smoking and vaping.

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In Pakistan, cultural and religious taboos have long limited women’s use of motorcycles, but this is changing. Economic challenges, including soaring car prices, have driven a shift toward two-wheelers, offering women greater independence in commuting to schools, jobs, and markets. Programs like Women on Wheels (WOW), run by Lahore’s traffic police, provide free motorcycle training, with over 6,600 women trained so far. For many, riding a motorcycle symbolizes empowerment. A 23-year-old criminology student described it as “breaking a glass ceiling.” To address safety concerns, one woman even designed a shorter abaya tailored for riding, highlighting how women are innovating to support this growing movement. This shift echoes a similar milestone in the 1980s when women fought for the right to drive cars. Now, motorcycles are opening new doors for women, breaking barriers, and redefining mobility in Pakistan.

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In a world often overshadowed by news of extinction, there's a spark of hope: scientists have recently discovered new plant and animal species! Among them are two pirate spiders from St. Helena, a remote Atlantic island. These spiders aggressively take over other spiders' webs and inhabit the island's threatened cloud forest. An expedition to Peru's Alto Mayo region revealed 27 new species, including a semi-aquatic mouse with webbed toes, perfectly adapted to its swampy habitat, and a bizarre blob-headed catfish. One standout discovery is the Cao Bang Crocodile Newt, a tiny, shy creature resembling a mix of crocodile, gecko and frog. With a body like a baby crocodile, orange-tipped toes and a frog-like head, this adorable newt measures just 7 cm. While these discoveries inspire awe, they also carry a sobering message. Many of these species are already on the brink of extinction, largely due to habitat destruction driven by human activity. Each discovery is a reminder of the urgent need to protect Earth's biodiversity before it's too late.

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Once upon a time, nestled in the quaint countryside of Beaufort, in the mystical eastern realms of Luxembourg, lie not one, but two castles – a duo of historical wonder that will have you saying, "Medieval meets Renaissance? Sign me up!" Find out more at www.bourgmeisterin.com!

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We're continuing with the story about Jules Hoffmann: in the late ’60s, a young technician in the Strasbourg lab caught Hoffmann’s eye. Little did he know, she’d soon become his wife, the mother of his two children, and his most trusted collaborator. Barely married, she went back to university, earning degrees in biochemistry and biology, joining Jules in his quest to unravel the mysteries of insect immunity. Together, they worked under Professor Joly until Jules took over as her thesis advisor. Their shared passion for science fueled discoveries that would later revolutionize our understanding of innate immunity – work that earned him a Nobel Prize. From the lab to Germany’s research institutes, and back to Strasbourg, Jules’s journey was one of relentless curiosity, groundbreaking discoveries, and teamwork—both professional and personal. His story reminds us that behind every great scientist is a partnership built on shared dreams. Find out more at www.bourgmeisterin.com!

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The Way of Liberation is a journey through vitrines and windows, an exhibition aiming for access to culture, to be witnessed through the streets of the city centers, exhibiting works of Arab artists - Palestine, Lebanese, Algerian and Sudanese artists. The idea is to give visibility and accessibility to their art work, especially in times in which people from these backgrounds are being silenced.

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Belgrade is set to introduce free public transport for all residents starting 1 January, Mayor Aleksandar Sapic announced. The initiative aims to reduce road congestion in the city of 1.7 million, where traffic jams are a daily struggle. Over the past decade, an additional 250,000 cars have clogged Belgrade’s streets, leaving many residents stuck in hours-long commutes. While free public transport has worked in smaller or wealthier places like Luxembourg or Tallinn, Belgrade faces unique challenges. The city’s ageing bus fleet and limited tram network are already under strain, and the metro system—currently under construction—won’t be operational until 2030 due to repeated delays. Mayor Sapic has promised to modernize the city’s buses, trams, and trolleybuses by 2027, but these upgrades will come with significant costs. Belgrade’s bold move could transform its public transport system, but it remains to be seen whether the infrastructure can handle the anticipated surge in passengers.

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Brazil has made significant strides in reducing poverty, lifting 8.7 million people out of poverty in just one year, according to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). Between 2022 and 2023, the number of people living in poverty fell from 67.7 million to 59 million, while extreme poverty dropped from 12.6 million to 9.5 million—the lowest figures since records began in 2012. Despite this progress, about 27% of Brazil’s 216 million population still live in poverty. Key to this success is the Bolsa Família program, a social welfare initiative that provides financial aid to low-income families, conditional on their children attending school and being vaccinated. This approach not only offers immediate relief but also breaks the cycle of poverty by promoting education and health. Introduced in 2003, the program has been praised for improving living standards and reducing hunger across Brazil. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has prioritized combating poverty and hunger, bringing the issue to global platforms like the G20. Brazil’s progress stands out, especially as poverty rates rise in other regions. Alongside Bolsa Família, economic recovery and job market improvements have boosted household incomes by 7% over the past year.

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We're continuing with the story about Jules Hoffmann: in the late ’60s, a young technician in the Strasbourg lab caught Hoffmann’s eye. Little did he know, she’d soon become his wife, the mother of his two children, and his most trusted collaborator. Barely married, she went back to university, earning degrees in biochemistry and biology, joining Jules in his quest to unravel the mysteries of insect immunity. Together, they worked under Professor Joly until Jules took over as her thesis advisor. Their shared passion for science fueled discoveries that would later revolutionize our understanding of innate immunity – work that earned him a Nobel Prize. From the lab to Germany’s research institutes, and back to Strasbourg, Jules’s journey was one of relentless curiosity, groundbreaking discoveries, and teamwork—both professional and personal. His story reminds us that behind every great scientist is a partnership built on shared dreams. Find out more at www.bourgmeisterin.com!

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