Motherhood by former World Number 1 fencer Julianna Revesz | Kensington Mums

1. Please introduce yourself: Name, what do you do & how many children you have.

My name is Julianna Revesz, I am the co-founder of Knightsbridge Fencing Club, I am a former World Number 1 fencer, I live in London with my husband and we raise a gorgeous, full of energy toddler, Alma.

2. How do you manage to juggle work and life balance as a mother?

I must say that I never thought it would be so difficult to raise a child and run a business at the same time. I only now realise how amazing my Mom was raising two children and working at the same time. I thought I would also pass this test easily, but I must admit, winning a fencing tournament is easier than raising a child. The sleepless nights and the constant worrying for the child’s wellbeing make it so challenging. Then Covid-19 hit and being locked inside with a 2 year old without any help from family or friends, made the infamous terrible-two phase even more challenging. I was given some advice; “sleep when the child sleeps”. However, I found that impossible. Babies have a very different biorhythm, so I used to work during those hours. My husband helped every step of the way and we kept each other positive knowing that this was a phase that would pass and grateful that at least we were getting the full experience of being parents and creating that bond with her. However, my husband felt this love was a little one-sided when once she threw her bottle of milk at him!

3. What top tips would you give to any working mum?

I understand how challenging it is for all working mums as often it feels like there is just not enough time or energy to do sports by yourself when you have million things to do, but it is vital at all stage of life. It brings balance and health for everyone mentally and physically, and this is why we created a program for parent and child private fencing lesson, so it is an experience for both mom and child and something they can challenge each other while having the best time. Doing sport together with your child is a win-win. You both get to exercise and spend quality time. So, my top tip for working moms is train and do sport together with your child when you can!

4. What do you love most about London? Do you have a favourite spot with your child?

I love how multicultural it is and that you can try all different types of cuisines. London is so dynamic and vibrant with interesting people. Every single day when I pick up Alma from the nursery she says “I want to go to the fencing club” so we usually end up being there hours prior to the fencing sessions and it feels me with so much joy and pride when I see her trying to imitate our young champions.

5. How do you define quality ‘me-time’?

Physical training has always been part of my life. Fencing is the sport where I can switch off and be in the moment. While fencing the only thing I have to focus on is scoring the next point. I find that it helps my concentration and as every match is different, I can never get bored of it. As a child I remember going home and feeling that both physically and mentally I gave it my all. I think every child should try it. It is the most elegant and coolest sport for both girls and boys.

I feel extremely blessed that I can find quality me time and piece in my work. Every year I especially look forward to our annual fencing retreat, which is a training camp, at the magnificent Forte Village resort in Sardinia. While we train hard the reward afterwards is to be able to relax in a tropical beach garden and spa in a luxury setting. It is truly phenomenal.

6. What is your favourite & least favourite thing about parenthood?

My favourite thing is when I look at Alma and can recognise how similar she looks both physically and in nature to both my husband and myself. It makes us smile how she has a competitive side that resembles me and a very caring and kind one which she must take from my husband. I often see my own mom and dad in her. My least favourite thing is the sleepless nights and the tantrums but hopefully that phase will pass soon.

7. Tell us something people don’t know about you.

When I started fencing, I was very petite and my parents weren’t sure what sport to suggest to me in which I might stand a chance of success. I worked for a whole year on making my legs strong enough for the en-guard position. No one really thought I could become a World Class athlete but in fencing it doesn’t matter how strong, weak, tall or short you are but rather how you can outsmart your opponent. So all the determination and hard work in all my life and establishing a successful fencing club where you have to lead by example and be firm, yet it turned out I find it difficult to be strict with my own child.

8. Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first time Mum?

You have this incredible excitement in you for the arrival of your child and you have dozens of plans for everything, however you have to be very flexible, as the baby will signal what works and what doesn’t. No amount of gadgets and plush toys will soothe your baby in the same way a hug and kiss from you will, so don’t overdo the shopping. And most importantly, you have got to keep your sense of humour about it especially in challenging moments!

At a later stage I was so afraid letting Alma go to nursery and trust someone else to look after her, but the teachers I met are incredibly loving and caring so I have the outmost respect for them and what they do.

9. I’m a mum and…… I am the co-founder of Knightsbridge Fencing Club.
10. Finally, please let us know what you love most about Kensington Mums?

I absolutely adore reading the articles at Weekly Scoop to keep myself up to date on events. It is very useful to hear about new shops and restaurants opening in London. I also love to look for new recipes at Kensington Mums.

Read more inspiring interviews as part of our online motherhood exhibition and get in touch to share your story with us. We would love to hear from you.