Post by Jenna Davis
Published Author | Founder & Community Growth Leader, Life in Germany & Life in Düsseldorf | Community of 200K+ International Families
We made it to the semi-finals of the Rheinpreneur Newcomer Award 2026 š„¹š With the help of Carla Pittaluga and Lia Sturm of course! But when I look at the other semifinalists, I see inspiring apps, platforms, and technologies shaping the future⦠And then thereās me⦠a mom with a stack of childrenās books. š Thatās how I feel at least⦠For over 10 years, Iāve helped international families build a life in Germany. After speaking with hundreds of parents, one question always stayed the same: āHow do I help my child feel like they belong?ā We give adults checklists, courses, and endless information. But children are often expected to navigate a new culture on their own. Iāve seen this not only through my work, but in my own home. My son was born and raised in Germany to a German father and a Canadian mother, and even he often struggles with āfeeling differentā. Thatās why I created Life in Germany for Kids: stories that help children understand German culture while reminding them that they never have to leave their own culture behind, nor should they feel apologetic. But this entrepreneurial start-up world is totally new to me, and honestly terrifying. š The word āpitchā still makes me nervous. Most of me wants to turn around and run away, until I remind myself⦠this isnāt about selling a product. Itās about creating belonging. Not just for my 2 children, but for thousands of multicultural children to follow. š So, letās step into unchartered territory. Thereās a first time for everything, right? š„° #Rheinpreneur #Integration #Belonging #Migration #ChildrensBooks #LifeInGermanyForKids #Germany #InterculturalEducation