Europe in my region –
The Canal is on the move
The Canal is an iconic waterway of Brussels, which flows through neighbourhoods that have changed a lot in recent decades. Formerly an industrial zone lined with factories and warehouses, the Canal has become a link between residents, a place where cultures mix, activities for all audiences (exhibitions, concerts, workshops for children…) and professional development opportunities (training, shared workspaces…), in places open to all and supported by the Brussels-Capital Region and the European Union.
With the “Europe in my region” initiative from June 10 to July 10, we would like to highlight this new paradigm and these different spaces, under the motto “The Canal is on the move.” We have recruited “ambassadors,” real people linked to several of these places, to take you through their experiences. The goal: to show the residents of nearby neighbourhoods that all these opportunities to learn, work, create or even have fun lie within their reach.
Want to (re)discover the Canal, its spaces and opportunities? Join us on Saturday, June 28 for a creative day full of enriching activities.
Join our event on Saturday, June 28!
The Canal is on the move
Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Time: From 11am to 6pm
Location: Ninove Gate, facing the Molenbeek lock
For one day, the Canal transforms into a vibrant hub to help you discover the initiatives supported by the Brussels-Capital Region and the European Union through exhibitions, creative workshops, an interactive walk, or even the creation of a collective work of art. Come and spend a great day with your friends or family!
Our ambassadors
Sigried
A seasoned scenography professor and designer, Sigried has been collaborating with iMAL for years. She not only uses the FabLab for her own projects, drawing inspiration from the vibrant community of creators, but also leads immersive workshops and courses.
Emiliano
Driven by his passion for wood, Emiliano followed a carpentry training at ART2WORK in 2024. Now working as an educator in a primary school, he credits his time at ART2WORK for shaping his skills and approach.
Bart
As an illustrator, guide, and facilitator, Bart has led creative workshops for children and youth at COOP for years. Inspired by the Canal district, these workshops foster cooperation and initiative in participants of all ages.
Fatima
For several years, Fatima has been a dedicated volunteer at Vaartkapoen, where she manages the kitchen and meals for all activities. Through her cooking, Fatima aims to foster sharing, well-being, and a sense of community.
Our influencers
@vidalalexe
Vidal is an entrepreneur and director who turned the capital city into his playground.
@carlcashknight
Carl Cash is an artist and activist who doesn’t hesitate to get involved and leverage his social media platforms to raise awareness for community-driven, inclusive projects.
@flowindey
Flo Windey is a radio host and content creator who uses her influence to amplify societal conversations.
@theguide_brussels
As a content creator, Nancy shines a light on the city of Brussels through her Instagram account, revealing the beauty of its neighbourhoods and the vibrant diversity of the capital.
Key initiatives
COOP
COOP is a former industrial site that has been transformed into a multi-purpose economic and cultural hub. SMEs can rent workspaces (offices, workshops, and warehouses), while children, schools, and associations can participate in workshops to discover the Canal and explore its history through the permanent exhibition. A cafeteria and a rooftop terrace complete the experience.
GC de Vaartkapoen
As a community centre and music venue, VK offers a wide range of activities for everyone, including courses, training sessions, sports, and of course, concerts of all musical styles in the renowned VKConcerts hall.
ART2WORK
As a non-profit organisation, ART2WORK helps young people in Brussels, aged 18 to 29, without higher education degrees or professional experience, to find their way or develop their professional project. They offer tailored support, access to a coworking space – the “Creative Brewery” in the Bellevue Building – and assistance in finding training in their field.
iMAL
iMAL (Interactive Media Art Laboratory) is a world-renowned organization that combines the roles of a digital art centre and a laboratory. Its activities include exhibitions, conferences, workshops, artist residencies, and a shared workshop equipped with digital fabrication machines – the FabLab – open to both professionals and individuals.
MAD Brussels
The « Centre de la Mode et du Design » supports Brussels-based fashion and design, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. This non-profit organisation curates exhibitions for the general public and gives designers the opportunity to launch their projects by offering them training and a workspace for two years through its “MAD Incubator” program.
Zinneke/Masui
Located in the former « Atelier Général du Timbre » (General Stamp Workshop) on Masui Square, Zinneke is a non-profit organisation famous for its iconic Brussels event, « the Zinneke Parade ». It makes its premises available to artists, collectives, and organisations for all kinds of activities (workshops, conferences, meetings, etc.). It also offers a « Metal & Mechanics » training program for anyone wishing to acquire skills in metal techniques.
Other projects and initiatives
Contact
To learn more about the initiatives supported by the Brussels-Capital Region and the European Union, as well as “Europe in my region,” visit: https://erdf.brussels/
https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/communication/campaigns/euinmyregion_en
Contact : feder@sprb.brussels