Time setter story: Batoul Mesdaghi on the subject of a fair energy transition

Working towards a fair energy transition

Batoul is an engineer whose expertise encompasses both technology and policy. She studied at Delft University of Technology and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Policy Analysis and Management and a Master’s degree in Engineering and Policy Analysis. ‘Having established that the climate is changing, the question is: what can we do to improve our resilience to the consequences of climate change? I chose to specialise in climate adaptation – first during my studies, and then in my position at a consultancy and engineering firm.’

Batoul felt that something was missing from her work as a consultant: the social aspects of the climate and energy transition. ‘Some people don’t have the same opportunities to take part. For example, homeowners often need pre-financing for sustainability grants and tenants are dependent on their landlords to make improvements to their homes. What can we do to work towards a broadly supported, accessible transition? That’s something I can research at TNO.’

Muslim woman in the tech sector

‘After many years of wanting to wear a hijab, but being put off by the impact this had on my mother’s career opportunities, I decided to take the plunge at the age of 20. Contemporary research shows that discrimination in the labour market is still an everyday experience for many Muslims. When I was thinking about wearing a hijab, it really helped me to see role models wearing them too. They made me realise that I could be myself and build a career at the same time.’

Batoul also mentions people’s conscious and unconscious biases. ‘For young woman in the tech sector, biases come with the territory. Sometimes, people underestimate you or assume that you’re not an expert. If you’re also a Muslim woman and wearing a hajib, it can be even worse. People are sometimes surprised when I tell them that I’m a scientist at TNO. They see me as an exception and can’t imagine other Muslim women doing the same thing.’

Batoul hopes that anyone else who recognises situations like these, or who is in the minority in the workplace, will stand their ground. ‘Claim your space and show them you’re the expert. Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself and what you believe in. Colleagues can play an important role in this by demonstrating encouraging behaviour, for example by expressly giving the floor to a female colleague in meetings in recognition of her role as an expert.’

Iftar at TNO

Besides her work as a researcher, Batoul is also active in the field of diversity, equality and inclusion at TNO. In 2024, she suggested organising an iftar together with a group of colleagues at the office in The Hague. More than 100 TNO employees from various cultural and religious backgrounds attended. This year, an iftar will be organised in both Utrecht and The Hague.

‘Although Muslims are now an integral part of Dutch society, they’re still on the receiving end of a lot of stereotyping and distrust. An iftar creates a connection between people and shows that Muslims are welcome.’ Batoul explains that Ramadan is a time of contemplation and reflection on your actions, intentions and character. ‘This contemplation affects your daily rhythm, so it’s really appreciated when a colleague or manager asks about this and takes it into consideration. During Ramadan, some Muslims might like to work from home more or use the communal lunch break to take a walk, while other people might have very different needs.’

‘An iftar has added value for everyone. Non-Muslim colleagues indicated that they had learnt a lot and had really enjoyed the evening. Another colleague, who had come to the Netherlands from abroad, told me this was his first iftar in a big group far away from home. Muslim colleagues who have worked here for years were glad to be able to celebrate Ramadan in the workplace. That makes it all worthwhile.’