Babymoon with Dr Moodley Becoming a mother is a dream for many women. Likewise, upgrading one's professional skills is a vision for many people, whether young or old. The problem arises when you feel you have limited time, whether because of work, family responsibilities, or both. Dr Kimera Moodley is proof that you can do it all. In addition to being a Senior Learning Designer and Lecturer at the University of Pretoria and a wife, she has recently added being a mother to her list of accomplishments. She told us: "I always felt that I had achieved some good things in my life and that being a mum is something 'everyone' does, but now that I have become a mum myself I can't believe that I made this little boy and he is mine." She said she feels more accomplished than ever before. One incredible quality that Dr Moodley highlights in her answer to one of our questions is her ability to be present. She's present in every area of life and every season of her life. It makes sense when you consider how much she has achieved in her professional career. When we asked her how she plans to juggle everything on her plate, she acknowledged that it would be a challenge initially because it's easy to feel torn between your work (which you enjoy) and being a mom (which is what's important to you). She, however, declared that with time she will "find the balance, routine, and time to fit it all in". She has further stated that being a determined individual makes her confident she'll find her way amidst the stumbling blocks she will encounter. Now, on to the adorable section of this read! Dr Moodley spoke so highly about her motherhood journey thus far. Her expression of love for her son would make anyone swoon. She said her favourite part about being a mom is "Looking at my son and realising how much this little boy has changed my life instantly and how much I love him. It's quite overwhelming at times." She further said, "I often feel like even in tough moments when I am unsure what to do or what he

needs, I can do anything for him. I don't think there is a favourite part; every smile, every cry, every hug, every cuddle… they are all favourite parts." It's said that if you want to succeed at something, you need to ask the people who have succeeded at the same thing. Having the opportunity to speak to a woman who is as accomplished as she is, we had to ask her if she has any advice for women who fear that they may not be able to "do it all", and we no to surprise her response did not disappoint. She emphasised the importance of being patient with yourself. "Rome wasn't built in a day. You will find the balance and routine with time and that is what you need TIME. Take it and accept that these moments will only come once so make the most of it and all other aspects such as work will fall into place." Dr Moodley said. She also spoke about the importance of being confident in oneself and being true to yourself, accepting change as it comes, and that "Projects will come again and opportunities will too, but being a mum will always come first." Although she's having a fantastic time bonding with her baby, we believe her colleagues can't wait to see her back at work again. Her colleagues miss her presence, and her absence is noticeable.