Sunday morning at Eaux-Vives with radiant, bubbly Malika. A mother-to-be with a lot of energy and a lot of attitude! Malika will share with us her vision of motherhood and how she hopes to successfully combine her life as a mother, her professional life and her social life.

Malika, can you introduce yourself in a few words?
I was born in Geneva and studied economics at university. I currently work in the banking sector in wealth management with Saudi Arabia.

8 months pregnant, how do you feel and how do you live your pregnancy?
I'm lucky to have had an easy pregnancy. I'm still living life at a thousand miles an hour, juggling work, sport, girlfriends, my husband and preparing for the arrival of my little baby.

You're hyper-active and continue to do several sports a week. Is this important to you? What does your gynaecologist think?
Staying active is vital for me. Between my dance classes, CrossFit, yoga and running, I find it hard to get off my feet. I'm lucky to have a pregnancy that's going well and to feel in great shape. Nevertheless, I'm listening to myself and slowing down my pace (I'm running slower but not for less time). As the pregnancy is not at risk, my gynaecologist and midwife are very supportive. I must admit, they were a bit surprised to hear that I was taking part in the Climbing Race in December (laughs). My next challenge? The NY marathon next November.

You've always had a very active social life. How do you see it when you become a mother?
Hmmm, being rational, I find it hard to project myself when I don't know. Ideally, I see myself finding a balance. I'm convinced that with a bit of organization and imagination, you can always find solutions!

Are you dreading childbirth?
I've tried to prepare myself as well as possible with hypnosis, acupuncture, osteo, yoga and lots of reading. If possible, I'd like to have a physiological birth, with as little medical intervention as possible and no epidural. The people around me think I'm a UFO (laughs), but for me it makes sense. If I want to accompany my baby in the best possible way, I have to be in control of my body, and pain is part of that. On the other hand, I want to give birth at the maternity hospital in case there are any complications.

What do you dread most with the arrival of your child?
Not having the time to do all the things I love to do. I know that the arrival of my daughter will turn everything upside down and fill me with joy, but I also know that I'll need moments just for me.

Working Girl 100% - are you thinking of becoming a 100% Working Mum?
Thanks to my husband, we have access to the HUG crèche, which is particularly flexible in terms of hours. We also have our two families who live nearby and are only too happy to help. I'm not thinking of reducing my working hours, as it's an essential balance in my life and it's often difficult to achieve the same goals with less time.

How did your employer react when you announced your pregnancy?
My employer thought I was going to tell him I was quitting when I told him I had to talk to him for a few minutes in a bubble (laughs). So he was reassured and happy to hear about my pregnancy. I consider myself lucky, because many companies don't support their employees during pregnancy or when they return from maternity leave. And that shocks me to no end! I work in partnership with an incredible colleague and friend who gives me all the support I need.

What kind of mother will you be?
Until you are one, it's hard to answer that question.

Do you think it's possible to reconcile family and professional life? If so, how?
Yes, with organization, respect and a lot of communication within the couple. I also think that you have to choose your battles and prioritize serenity as much as possible.

What core values would you like to instill in your daughter?
Curiosity, questioning and kindness.

Malika, what can we wish you for tomorrow?
A healthy baby girl and a good New York marathon (smile).