COVER MOM
Nathalie Eoma
CREDITS
- Model: Nathalie Eoma (@iam_nathalie_eoma)
- Photographer: Ron Paolo Gilman (@ronpaologilman)
- Art director: Kéyoh Ohanian (@keyoh_official)
- Interior designer / creative director: Anna Ohanian (@annaohanian)
- Make-up by: JiJi
- Hair by: Kristina Hasoyan (@kristinahasoyan)
- Styling by: Didi (@Bleucestgris)
- Styling by: Gaiane Hasoyan (@gaianehasoyannn)
- Clothing by: Bleu C’est Gris (@Bleucestgris)
- Accessoriesby: Kochelly (@kochelly_com)
- Location: Sensum Gent
COVER MOM INTERVIEW
Nathalie Eoma: "Motherhood filled a part of me I didn't know was missing."
01. Nathalie, can you introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Nathalie Eoma, 29 years old, married to the love of my life, Laurent Verbeken, and a proud mother to our son, Guillaume Verbeken. My life is a tapestry of roles: model, designer of the clothing brand Madame Abacost here in Europe, and co-founder of the DRC Fashion Week in my homeland, the Democratic Republic of Congo.
02. How has motherhood transformed your life?
Becoming a mother has been the most beautiful blessing. It fills my life with a kind of happiness I didn’t know I needed. It’s as though I’ve finally found a missing piece of myself. I feel more emotional, more fulfilled motherhood has truly enriched me.
03. As a model, who has inspired you the most?
I’ve had the honor of meeting so many incredible models, whether on red carpets or at other events. But like so many little Black girls, Naomi Campbell has always been my ultimate icon. Sharing the same stage with her was nothing short of spectacular. It was emotional, surreal – a moment I’ll never forget.
04. Speaking of Naomi, many have drawn parallels between you two. How does that feel?
It’s such an honor to even be mentioned alongside her. She’s a legend! And I must admit, whenever I wear the same hairstyle as her, it makes me smile – there’s a little part of me that loves the comparison.
05. Did you ever doubt your return to modeling after becoming a mother?
Absolutely. I wasn’t sure how my body would respond after giving birth, and I even considered stepping away from modeling. But to my surprise, I recovered quickly and found myself walking confidently again. I look forward to the day my son sees me on the runway and feels proud of his mother. That thought alone keeps me motivated.
06. How are you balancing work and motherhood?
It’s a work in progress! Guillaume is still very young, and I’m adjusting to this new rhythm. Right now, it’s challenging, but I’m learning to adapt and better organize my schedule. It’s a journey, but I know I’ll find my balance.
07. What’s next for your brand, Madame Abacost?
I’m currently pouring my heart into our next collection, which is set to launch in early 2025. It’s such an exciting project, and I can’t wait to unveil it to the world.
08. What drives you in your career and personal life?
I have a constant fear of not giving my best. That fear pushes me to work hard, whether it’s a creative project or a personal goal. When I commit to something, I give it everything I’ve got. It’s who I am.
09. How did your upbringing shape the woman you are today?
I grew up in Congo surrounded by love, hard work, and a sense of community. My mother was incredibly dedicated, and our neighborhood was filled with warmth and connection. That foundation taught me the value of passion, resilience, and joy in life. I owe so much of who I am to those roots.
10. Finally, tell us a bit about your experience shooting with the Glam Mom Magazine team.
Shooting with the Glam Mom Magazine team was such a heartwarming experience. From the moment I arrived on set, I felt seen – not just as a model or a mother, but as a woman with a story to tell. The team was professional, creative, and incredibly kind. There was so much care in every detail – from the styling to the lighting – and that made me feel safe to be myself. As a mother juggling so many roles, it was refreshing to work with people who understood that and celebrated it. Honestly, it didn’t feel like work – it felt like a beautiful collaboration.
SENSUM GENT
At SENSUM, we want every visit to taste like more. Deborah and chef Maurice welcome you in a stylish and beautifully renovated castle on the outskirts of Ghent. They will let you enjoy unique moments. They want to take you on their own journey, and celebrate life with you.
Five Years, Three Recurrences, One Choice: How I Learned to Celebrate Every Day
Justien Jonckheere
My name is Justien Jonckheere, I’m 41 years old and live in Ghent (Wondelgem) with my husband Wouter and our daughter Lily Rose, who is now 10. Since 2016, breast cancer has been part of my life. After recurrences in 2021 and 2023, the disease spread and became incurable – but it hasn’t stopped me from living fully and embracing every moment.
At 30, I had everything I could dream of: a great job, a wonderful husband, a lovely daughter, and a vibrant social life. During the week, we worked hard, went to the gym, and I enjoyed cuddle time with my newborn daughter. On weekends, the days flew by – we had a busy social calendar filled with get-togethers with friends and family.
At 31, it felt like the world collapsed on me. I had felt a lump in my breast, and after further examinations, it turned out I had breast cancer. After a trajectory of chemotherapy, surgeries, and radiation, I still faced at least five years of hormone therapy. Wouter and I wanted another child, but that dream had to be put on hold, as the hormone treatment also put me into menopause. Five years later, just one month before I could stop the hormone therapy, I felt another lump, this time on my breastbone. The cancer was back. This treatment plan involved “only” surgery and radiation, but due to slow wound healing, I struggled for months again.
As much as I wished to close that chapter, just a year later vague symptoms sent me back to the doctor. Against all odds, the cancer had returned for the third time – this time spreading to my breastbone and the pleura of my lungs, and sadly, that meant it was incurable. I have now been living for 2.5 years as a “palliative” cancer patient, although I prefer to call myself “chronically ill.” With a combination of chemotherapy pills and monthly injections, the disease is currently more or less stable. Not entirely, since in May 2025 I needed radiation again due to new cancer growth around my breastbone. Fortunately, that treatment seems to have worked, as the growth has decreased again. A next scan will show whether things remain under control.
The illness left me with some large, visible scars – like a big flap on my décolleté – and a range of unpleasant side effects from hormone therapy and the chemotherapy pills. But I accept those scars and side effects with love and gratitude if they allow me more time in this world with my husband, my daughter, and everyone I love.
I know my story sounds heavy and almost insurmountable, but everyone who knows or follows me knows that I don’t live my life as if I were a seriously ill person. My big scar sometimes gets surprised looks, but in general, people meeting me for the first time see someone who is positive, who doesn’t seem weighed down by major problems, a woman who enjoys hobbies like face painting and volunteer work, with a love for 1950s style, and with a family so full of love it almost seems too good to be true. Of course, the illness has a major impact on my life, my energy, and my future dreams, and sadly, that will never go away. But I don’t want to surround myself with negativity or despair. On the contrary, more than ever before, I make sure to surround myself with “positive vibes.” I live more consciously than I did before cancer, and I try to enjoy every single moment. Life is full of little sparks of joy, and I grab them all to live with gratitude.
My daughter and my husband are everything to me. In the past, I never wanted to define myself only as a mom or someone’s partner, but now they are my whole reason for being. I am so proud of them, and I feel how proud they are of me. I am not just “the woman with cancer” – to them, I am everything in all my facets, and that gives me so much confidence. That confidence wasn’t always there. I’ve had to rediscover my identity multiple times after the crushing blows of my diagnoses. For a long time, I was searching for who I was now that I was also a cancer patient, and that journey led me to many different adventures: pin-up pageants, learning face painting, following the School of Confidence, starting volunteer work at Warriors Against Cancer and in the children’s hospital at Ghent University Hospital… Thanks to my family and everyone I met along the way, I also learned how important self-care is and that the power of self-love should never be underestimated.
As a woman and as a mother, I find it important to surround myself with women who inspire me and who I look up to. In daily life, those are my mom, my friends, my creative face-painting colleagues, and the women in my family. I also draw enormous strength and energy from women who live authentically and in their own unique way, women I first discovered through social media but who I’ve since come to know personally. For example, Zoe Bizoe, a Ghent-based “Cabarasque” artist, whose performances overflow with sex appeal and humor, while also daring to address diversity and socially relevant topics. Another is Anastasya Chernook, an artist, writer, and founder of the School of Confidence – a bold, talented, funny, and inspiring woman from whom I’ve learned so much. And then there is Vanessa Vigna Bossuyt, makeup artist, photographer, and founder of Warriors Against Cancer, who worked for years to realize her passion project: a house where children, teens, and adults with cancer can find respite during or after treatments. She has seen so much pain and loss, often having to say goodbye to Warriors close to her heart, yet she continues her work with a smile for everyone she meets.
People who radiate joie de vivre always have a special place in my heart – I love to be around them. Often, they aren’t the people who’ve never faced hardship, but those who transform their struggles into something creative and positive. As a mother, I also feel it’s part of my legacy to raise my daughter into a confident woman who embraces life with joy and makes the best of setbacks.
Another thing I’ve realized after spending months at a time in hospital gowns or pajamas is this: “Every day is a celebration, so make it one—wear your beautiful clothes, your jewelry, your fancy makeup, your most expensive perfume. Don’t save them for later.” I’m proud and a little vain – I love dressing up, wearing colorful dresses as soon as I can, and I don’t mind standing out. I already stand out with my bright red lipstick, big earrings, and flowers in my hair, and my large scar on my décolleté makes me even more noticeable. I don’t find it beautiful, but I don’t want to hide it either. It makes me unique and is part of who I am. On some days, though, I don’t feel like dealing with stares or, worse, pity in strangers’ eyes. On those days, I can easily cover it up with a high-necked top or a scarf. That’s the advantage: I choose when to show it.
I would love to get a tattoo over my scar, something elegant and graceful, with flowers symbolizing that beautiful things can grow out of difficult times. “Grow roots from my scars and let the flowers be the endless reminder that pain was needed to heal.” To find the perfect artist, I’m getting help from a Dutch nonprofit called Tittoo, which matches cancer survivors with large scars to tattoo artists experienced in working on scarred skin. Yet another example of something that came onto my path because of cancer – and something I can only be grateful for.
I still have many dreams for the future, and I hope I will be able to live and experience many things. But of course, there’s always that little voice in the back of my mind, familiar to many with incurable illnesses: “What if this is my last summer?” “What if this is my last Christmas?” “What if my next scan is so bad that nothing can be done anymore?” Instead of letting those thoughts paralyze me, I enjoy each moment twice as much. I dare to name and share those thoughts and feelings, and I think that’s why people find me strong. Of course, I have bad days, and sometimes it’s all too much, but most of the time I’m happy, positive, bubbly, and enthusiastic.
If it’s up to me, I’ll live to be a 90-year-old lady, still sitting on a terrace with red lips, a beautiful dress, and oversized sunglasses, watching people pass by and enjoying everything life has to offer.
From Damascus to Dream Designs
Batoul Al-Bukhari
In a quiet corner of Belgium, where cobblestone streets echo with European charm and multicultural lives intersect, Batoul Al-Bukhari is busy weaving dreams into spaces. She’s not just an interior architect. She’s a storyteller. A Syrian-born artist, a devoted mother, an entrepreneur and above all, a woman who has turned displacement into purpose, and heartbreak into beauty. Batoul’s journey begins in Damascus, one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities, a place where history is carved into the stones, and artistry breathes through the ornate woodwork and colorful souks. It was there, in that mosaic of culture and memory, that Batoul first fell in love with detail, design, and meaning. But when war shattered the rhythms of daily life, Batoul made a decision that would shape her future forever. At just 17, she left Syria and moved with her family to Lebanon, a choice born of courage and necessity.
“It was difficult to leave everything behind at such a young age,” she recalls. “But I had to do it for my family, for myself.” While studying interior design, Batoul worked to support her loved ones. Each lecture she attended, each shift she worked, became a thread in the fabric of her resilience. “That time dyed my character with grit,” she says. “The war didn’t break me, it pushed me to keep going.” And she did. With unwavering determination, Batoul graduated with distinction, honoring the sacrifices of her parents and proving to herself that survival can lead to something beautiful. But life, as Batoul knows, rarely stops moving. After five years in Lebanon, another chapter called. This time, it was Belgium, a new country, new language, and new beginning. “I felt lost at times,” she admits. “But I held onto one belief: Nothing is impossible if you believe in yourself.”
Those early days in Europe were filled with transition, taking on various jobs while navigating motherhood, culture shock, and self-doubt. Yet through it all, Batoul never stopped dreaming. Quietly, steadily, she began laying the foundation for her next big step: launching her own creative ventures. In Belgium, love found her too. She met her husband, a kindred spirit who shared her vision and values. “We connected instantly,” she says, smiling. Together, they built a home and soon welcomed their greatest gift, a son named Noah. Now one year old, Noah is Batoul’s daily source of light and inspiration. “He’s curious, energetic and he motivates me to be better every day,” she says. “When I look at him, I want to be the best woman, mother, and designer I can be.”
Motherhood has deepened Batoul’s creativity, grounding her ambitions in love and legacy. But if you ask her where her strength truly comes from, she’ll point to another woman: her mother. “She’s a powerhouse,” Batoul says. “A businesswoman who launched multiple ventures and never gave up. Watching her taught me that resilience is not just about enduring, it’s about building.” That spirit now infuses everything Batoul creates. She is the founder of Eventchic, a boutique event styling studio that turns celebrations into deeply personal experiences. Whether it’s a wedding, a baby shower, or an intimate gathering, every event is crafted with intention, elegance, and emotion. But Batoul’s vision goes beyond events. Soon, she’ll be unveiling Bugari, an interior architecture brand that marries luxury with soul drawing from her cultural roots to craft spaces that tell stories. “Design, for me, is about more than aesthetics,” she explains. “It’s about connection. Emotion. Identity.” From custom murals to intimate tablescapes, Batoul’s work is a tapestry of everything she’s lived Damascus’s poetry, Lebanon’s lessons, Belgium’s new beginnings. Her style is unapologetically feminine, strong, and deeply human, a reflection of her own journey.
To women everywhere, Batoul offers a heartfelt message: “Never give up. There’s strength inside you waiting to be awakened. Dream big. Be fearless. Find your joy, through family, creativity, or career.” As she continues building her businesses, raising her son, and carving her name into the design world, one thing is clear: Batoul Al-Bukhari is not just creating beautiful things, she’s living a beautiful truth. With vision in her eyes and roots in her heart, she’s proving that no matter where you come from or how many times you must start again, reinvention is always possible and sometimes, it leads you right where you were meant to be.
Love,
Batoul
How Hinde Turned Single Motherhood into Strength, Style, and Self-Love
Hinde Belcaid
My name is Hinde, I’m 37 years old, Belgian with Moroccan roots, a photo model, an influencer, and a happy mom to a wonderful little princess. I’m thrilled to share a little part of my journey as a full-time single mom with you.
I grew up with the strongest example of all: my mother. To me, she is a true heroine – a woman who gave life five times and endured the heavy battle of motherhood alone. How could I not feel capable of accomplishing the same feat after witnessing her strength?
Becoming a mother didn’t just make me realize the pride that comes with such a noble title, it also saved me from a certain negative hold. Sometimes, a lifelong dream can turn into a nightmare. We imagine perfection, idealize a relationship to the point of becoming blind and dependent. And then there’s that one moment – the final straw – that signals the end of a dark period.
I told myself, “Make the right decisions to offer the best of yourself and be the example you want to set.” That’s when I chose to take on both the role of dad and mom, feeling it was my responsibility to provide my daughter with safety, love, and a joyful life. This is my perfect relationship, my ideal today.
Of course, I’m not just a mom who’s totally dedicated – it’s also crucial for a woman to assert herself and take time for herself. A fan of fashion and artistic creation, I found in photography a way to rebuild myself. It allowed me to maintain my femininity, to value myself, and, above all, to send this message: no matter our situation, whether independent or not, we are all Queens.
Mother, Woman, and Passionate Soul: My Journey Between Fashion and Love
Georgia
My name is Georgia. I am a stylist, personal shopper, fashion teacher… but above all, I am a mother. Today, I am fortunate to live a life where my professional passions blend harmoniously with my role as a mother of two wonderful children, alongside a husband who inspires me every single day. It was when I created my own family that I truly discovered who I was, found my voice, and chose to embrace life fully, moment by moment.
I am originally from Greece and was raised by my father and older sister. My father was a fashion designer – he was the one who instilled in me, from a very young age, a deep love for clothing, attention to detail, and a sense of style. My mother, on the other hand, was almost a stranger to me. She passed away when I was just 14 years old. Her absence left a deep void in my adolescence. Losing her was a wound that shaped me – not only as a woman but also as the mother I would later become. I carried that emptiness for a long time, and it’s probably the reason why today, I am so present, so committed, and so emotionally invested in my children’s lives. I made the conscious choice never to give up – to give my family everything I never had: love, care, presence, and attention.
At the age of 17, I joined the House of Chanel. It was my very first professional step into the world of fashion. By the time I turned 20, I had graduated as a fashion designer and had the privilege of working with some incredibly talented and experienced professionals. That period remains etched in my memory as a waking dream – surreal and magical. Later on, I became part of the American team that opened the very first Michael Kors store in Belgium. It was an exhilarating journey, full of challenges, discoveries, and growth. I have always been a determined woman – resourceful, independent, resilient. I learned early on to rely only on myself, to turn struggles into strengths, and that is exactly what I strive to teach my children: to believe in themselves, to stay united, to listen to one another, and to never, ever give up.
Today, fashion is not just my job – it’s a way of life. It’s in the way we move, the choices we make, the way we mark family milestones. I adore dressing my children, my husband, and myself – curating a sense of style that reflects the emotion and essence of each moment. For me, fashion is a language – a way to express love, creativity, and self-respect. I also teach fashion part-time. Sharing my knowledge and experience with passionate teenagers – many of whom are looking for direction or inspiration – is something that brings me profound joy. Teaching, for me, is a form of therapy. It’s a reminder that at any age, we can choose to believe in our dreams.
To me, being a mother means giving everything, without counting the cost. It means being present, being strong, being attentive, and always staying in motion. I am a mother who doesn’t give up – not even when exhaustion creeps in or when the days feel far too short. Because I am deeply convinced of one thing: with willpower, anything is possible. Today, I am proud of the road I’ve taken. Proud of the close-knit family I’ve built, proud to work in a field I love, and proud to have turned childhood wounds into a source of strength and purpose. I still have many dreams waiting to be realized, but I know that as long as I keep this love, this passion, and this inner fire alive – everything remains possible.
I now present myself under my own name that holds a story, a heart, and a profound meaning. It’s a tribute to my children, Simon and Gioia – both born on the 27th, exactly one year apart. Their bond is magical, almost twin-like, and they inspire me every day. My next dream is deeply personal: to create something that reflects their essence. A vision shaped by clean lines, quiet strength, and the beauty of their unique connection. It’s more than a project – it’s a journey of love, legacy, and creativity.
My hobbies? Traveling, reading, and constantly learning – always growing, always evolving.
Georgia
Authentic Georgian Charm in the Heart of Antwerp South
Little Tbilisi
Little Tbilisi is a brand new, heartwarming family restaurant in the south of Antwerp, founded by sisters Anna and Tereza Kalandadze , originally from the heart of Tbilisi. With this unique concept, they bring a true taste of their Georgian heritage to the city, serving traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Their menu features authentic Georgian dishes made with fresh ingredients and lots of love. The food is served in small plates, perfect for sharing – just like a traditional Georgian Supra, a festive meal centered around family, friends, and hospitality.
Little Tbilisi also offers an impressive selection of Georgian wines, ranging from crisp whites to bold, full-bodied reds – each telling a story of ancient traditions, craftsmanship, and passion.
On sunny days, guests can enjoy the large terrace at the front or relax in the inviting patio at the back – the perfect setting to experience a piece of Georgia in Antwerp.
Building Dreams, Raising Strength: How to Balance Motherhood and Ambition
Petra Kesteloot
My name is Petra Kesteloot. I’m 29 years old, living in West Flanders, and I’m a proud single mom of two wonderful children: my daughter Lily-Rose, who is 7 years old, and my little boy Livio, who is 2 and a half.
Being their mother is the most beautiful and meaningful role I’ve ever had. But alongside that, I’m also an independent entrepreneur. I’m active in the world of network marketing, and recently, I took a big leap and launched my very own clothing brand – a dream I’ve carried in my heart for a long time, and which I’ve brought to life with a lot of passion, determination, and hard work.
Combining single motherhood with entrepreneurship is no easy feat – and I want to be completely honest about that. It’s intense, it’s demanding, and it challenges me every single day. It requires a strong sense of structure, unwavering discipline, and above all, a clear commitment to finding balance. During the week, I focus intentionally on building my business and growing my brand. But no matter how busy things get, my children always remain my priority, my anchor, and my “why.” Every single day, I make sure there’s time carved out just for us – just the three of us, our little family. Whether it’s a shared meal, a bedtime story, or just quality time together, those moments mean everything to me.
So, what have I learned throughout this journey?
That it’s absolutely possible to chase your dreams – even as a single mom. That your life doesn’t have to be put on hold just because you’re doing it all on your own. You’re allowed to grow. You’re allowed to enjoy life. You’re allowed to take time for yourself, to dream, and to pursue those dreams. In fact, I truly believe every woman deserves that – including single mothers. Especially single mothers.
My children are my greatest source of strength and inspiration. They are the reason I keep pushing forward, even on the hard days. They are the reason I continue to dream big – and the reason I’m committed to turning those dreams into reality. One day, I want them to look back and know deep in their hearts that nothing is impossible – no matter the circumstances. That you can go through challenges, face setbacks, and still rise. Still thrive. Still create a life you love.
Dreams exist for a reason. They are meant to be followed – and fulfilled.
To all the single moms out there:
You are strong.
You are brave.
You are irreplaceable.
Every day, you give your all – for your children and for yourself. Please never forget this: you are doing an amazing job.
