Stories that make you belong
Books that open doors. Conversation that keep them open.
Our Story
In The Genes Foundation started with a team of two people who got inspired by the UAE’s great solidarity that it has with all its people.
André Bonello had spent a number of years working on inclusion and research. Having a base in studying social policy in Europe, then on the ground at Caritas Malta and in youth programmes for teenagers who were marginated. He knew what it looked like when belonging was treated as an afterthought. Sarah Farrugia Gay, a mother of a wonderful child with determination got inspired by her own child to write stories for all children to care for each other.
Together they created Leo and Luna an Emirati boy in a white kandura with a blue scarf, and a girl with glasses, a wheelchair, and a small blue bunny called Honey. Not symbols. Just children. Real on the page because they were made with care.
In The Genes is rooted in the UAE a country that has written inclusion into its national identity. That felt like the right place to begin. Today, ITGF works across children’s books, school programmes, and the You Belong podcast. The mission is simple: help the next generation grow up believing that every child belongs not as an exception, but as a given.
Luna Lights: exciting ways to learn
The Luna Lights the Way series follows Leo and Luna, two friends who show children what real inclusion looks like. Five beautifully illustrated storybooks for ages 6 to 10, built around empathy, curiosity, and connection
Book 1
Luna Lights: The Way to Show Kindness Beyond Words
Leo wants to help Luna, but he isn’t sure how — and Luna isn’t sure how to ask. A story about non-verbal communication, patience, and the different ways people express and receive care. Children learn that paying attention to someone is one of the most powerful kindnesses they can offer.
Book 2
Luna Lights: Twin Power — Stronger Together
Leo and Luna take on a challenge together and discover that the things they thought were obstacles turn out to be exactly what makes them unstoppable as a pair. A story about complementary strengths, collaboration, and why difference is an asset, not a problem.
Book 3
Luna Lights: The Language of Colours
Luna uses colour to express feelings that are hard to put into words. Leo learns to listen differently — with his eyes as much as his ears. A story about emotional expression, creative communication, and the many languages children use to make themselves understood.
Book 4
Luna Lights: Together We Glow
This book is about the feeling in a room when no one is left out — and what it takes to create that. Leo and Luna are part of a group where inclusion isn’t assumed; it’s built step by step by children who choose to make space for each other.
Book 5
Luna Lights: A Different Kind of Day
A day full of unexpected changes challenges Leo and Luna to adapt, support each other, and find new ways forward. A story about flexibility, resilience, and the strength that comes from not facing difficult days alone.
Young Explorer Award. UAE Stories closer to the children
Belonging is not an aspiration. It’s an action.
You Belong is the UAE’s first dedicated podcast on inclusion. Every episode is a conversation worth having with educators, parents, policymakers, and anyone who believes belonging is something you build.
Do you want to give something back?
You Belong is the UAE’s first dedicated podcast on inclusion. Every episode is a conversation worth having Whether you have a few hours or a long-term vision, there is a place for you here. Volunteers and corporate partners are the people who make our work possible — in classrooms, at events, and behind the scenes. educators, parents, policymakers, and anyone who believes belonging is something you build.
We love our staff and
we think you will too
Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam.
Toby Flennigan
Scouts Leader
Melanie Smith
Director
Josh Lennon
Program Coordinator
Josephine Lewis
Research Expert
What parents are saying…
Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam.
Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam.
Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam.
Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam.
