Looking Back, Moving Forward

Founders Femke and Maritska take us back to where it all began and reflect on the journey that brought the Foundation to where it is today.

"In October 2012, while carpooling in the early morning, the idea of the Brunel Foundation popped into our heads," they recall. "We fantasized: what if we win the Target Control Staff Contest with this idea? What if, one day, it could even become a Brunel Global initiative? In our minds the sky was the limit."

That dream became reality. By December 2012, the Foundation was born. Over the years, it grew from a Dutch initiative into a global organisation. Along the way, Femke and Maritska learned to pioneer, to trust their compass, and to build a strong partnership based on shared values, laughter, and perseverance.

When asked about the turning point, they both agree: “2019 was a milestone. That’s when we expanded our mission worldwide and we made it our job. From this moment on we could fully focus on creating impact and activate Brunellers all over the globe for People and Planet.”

And now in 2025, another shift is taking place. “This year we’re entering a new chapter,” they explain. “From now on, the Brunel Foundation will be fully dedicated to Planet initiatives. The People-focused programs will continue within Brunel, while we concentrate on sustainability and creating lasting impact for our planet and future generations.”

Building New Habits is all about showing how small choices add up – inspiring colleagues and everyone around them to make sustainable choices where and when they can in their private and working life.

With Inspiring Future Professionals, we want to spark children’s curiosity about renewable energy and tomorrow’s jobs – letting them imagine themselves how they can be part of the transition to a greener future.

And through Cultivating a Greener Future, we focus on protecting nature, from clean-ups to reforestation and biodiversity projects. 

“We also believe in Impact from the Heart,” says Maritska. “That’s when Brunellers around the world take action for causes close to their heart. Even when an initiative is not something the Brunel Foundation directly leads, we believe in the powerful ripple effect of doing good. Every positive action can set an example for others to do the same".

Looking back, Femke and Maritska share what has mattered most: “The success of the Brunel Foundation has always been built on the energy and enthusiasm of our colleagues. With the spirit of ‘doing good together,’ we’ll continue to create meaningful change!