#Mumchat - Fabulous mum of 2 Gabriella Skaf shares her mum world

NAME: Gabriella Skaf

AGE: 39

NATIONALITY: Lebanese French

LOCATION:  Dubai

NUMBER OF YEARS BEING A MUM: 5

TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS: One boy 5 years old and One Girl 4 years old

INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @Gabriellaskaf

I’m Gabriella Skaf, founder of Les Marionnettes Theatre, the first puppet show theatre in the UAE. After more than 16 years working as a lawyer in banking and finance, I decided to create a cultural space where children and families can rediscover the magic of theatre. As a mother of two, I wanted to build a place that inspires creativity, imagination, and joy in every child.

1.      What’s one thing you wish you’d known before becoming a parent?

To enjoy motherhood without worrying or stressing too much — time goes by so fast, and every stage has its own beauty.

2.     What’s something you swore you’d never do as a parent—but do now?

Talk about my kids every chance I get.

3.    What was the BEST piece of parenting advice you’ve received?

Be present with your kids. Kids won’t remember the perfect plans, they will remember the time you spent with them.

4.     Share with us your biggest “parenting fail” – we promise no judgement here!

Trying to do too many things at once — replying to emails and messages or ordering groceries while spending time with them. I am learning to be more present and give them my full attention.

5.     How do you balance life?

I try my best every day. I have learned that balance doesn’t mean doing everything — it’s about knowing your priorities and being kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned.

6.    One parenting hack you’d like to share with us.

I am learning to stay calm and listen. Most challenges with kids pass more easily when we pause and connect instead of reacting right away. It’s not always easy, especially in the fast-paced world we live in, but it makes such a difference.

7.     What do you hope your kids say about you when they’re older?

That I gave them all the love they needed and helped them grow into confident, kind and happy people.

8.    3 words that describe #MumLife to you

Love. Responsibility. Change