Today we’d like to introduce you to Enka Tsend.
Hi Enka , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey to Mommy Time began during the Christmas shopping season in 2013. While shopping at Tysons Corner, I noticed exhausted mothers struggling with shopping bags while their tired children followed behind them crying. I remember thinking, “There should be a safe and enjoyable place where children can play while their mothers have a little time to shop, complete errands, or simply take a break.” That moment inspired the name and mission of Mommy Time.
I began developing a business plan that combined two important goals: creating a fun, safe environment for children and providing meaningful support for busy parents. In 2014, I opened the first Mommy Time indoor playground in a shopping mall in Roanoke, Virginia. Starting a new concept was not easy. I had to learn every part of the business—from finding the right location and designing the space to managing construction, hiring employees, controlling expenses, maintaining safety standards, and earning the trust of local families.
My professional background helped me turn the idea into a real business. I hold master’s degrees in Engineering and Engineering Management, as well as education in financial management, AutoCAD, and engineering design. I have worked in engineering, accounting, customer service, and small-business management. These experiences taught me to be detail-oriented, solve problems methodically, manage finances responsibly, and remain calm when unexpected challenges arise. My work as a community interpreter also strengthened my ability to communicate with families from many different cultural backgrounds.
Over the years, Mommy Time became much more than a playground. It became a place where families could connect, children could develop confidence, and parents could feel welcomed and supported. After operating in Roanoke for many years, I brought the Mommy Time vision to Ashburn. Today, Mommy Time Indoor Playground and Martial Arts Center serves children and families through open play, birthday celebrations, field trips, summer programs, and Jiu jitsu and martial arts classes.
Throughout this journey, the continuous support of my husband, son, and daughter has given me the strength to stand strong every day. Their encouragement, patience, and belief in my vision have been essential to my success. Mommy Time is not only my business—it is a family journey built through love, teamwork, sacrifice, and a shared commitment to supporting children and families in our community.
As an immigrant, a mother, an engineer, and a business owner, I have learned that success is built through persistence, adaptability, and service to others. Every stage of this journey has required me to identify problems, create practical solutions, and continue moving forward—even when the path was difficult. What began with one observation during a busy Christmas shopping trip has grown into a lasting mission: to create a safe, joyful community where children are happy, parents feel supported, and families can make meaningful memories together.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There were many unexpected challenges, delays, and financial pressures. At times, I had to solve problems that I had never encountered before, often while managing several responsibilities at once. My work ethic background taught me to analyze each situation carefully, identify practical solutions, and keep moving forward. I learned that when you do not know something, you must be willing to ask questions, conduct research, listen to experienced professionals, and continue learning.
There were moments when the journey felt overwhelming, but giving up was never an option. The unwavering support of my husband, son, and daughter helped me remain strong during the most difficult times. Every challenge sharpened my abilities, strengthened my confidence, and made me a more resilient business owner.
This experience taught me that entrepreneurship is not about knowing everything before you begin. It is about having the courage to start, the humility to learn, and the determination to continue when the road becomes difficult.
As you know, we’re big fans of Mommy Time. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Mommy Time is a family-owned indoor playground, Jiu jitsu and martial arts center in Ashburn, Virginia, created to give children a safe, active, and joyful place to play while helping parents feel supported and connected. We primarily serve children ages one to ten in our indoor playground, while our Jiu jitsu and martial arts programs welcome children ages three and older.
We offer open play with unlimited playtime, birthday parties, daycare and school field trips, summer programs, and Jiu jitsu and martial arts classes. Our goal is to provide more than entertainment. Through active play, children can build confidence, independence, coordination, social skills, and friendships. Our martial arts programs also teach discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-control.
What sets Mommy Time apart is the personal care behind everything we do. We understand how demanding parenting can be, so we have created a welcoming environment where children can enjoy themselves and parents can relax, connect with others, and make lasting memories with their families. We take the time to get to know our customers, listen to their needs, and make each child feel welcome.
I am especially proud that Mommy Time began as one mother’s idea and grew into a trusted community-centered brand. Our first location opened in Roanoke, and today we are continuing that mission in Ashburn. We built this business through determination, continuous learning, and the support of our family.
What we want readers to know is that Mommy Time is more than an indoor playground. It is a place built by a family for families—a place where children can play, learn, and grow, while parents feel welcomed and supported. Our greatest achievement is seeing children leave smiling, hearing them ask to return, and watching families come back to celebrate important moments with us. That trust is what makes me most proud of the Mommy Time.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was curious, determined, and always interested in understanding how things worked. I enjoyed solving problems and believed that education, discipline, and hard work could create new opportunities. Those qualities eventually led me to study engineering and later helped me become an entrepreneur.
I have also always believed in setting ambitious goals and helping others reach their full potential. That belief continues through Mommy Time today. One of my greatest dreams is to see a student from Mommy Time Academy compete in the Olympic Games and one day become an Olympic champion.
Our Sensei, Bukhbat Mashbat, Olympic Referee brings proven techniques, extensive experience, discipline, and a clear vision for developing young athletes. Together, We want to give children a strong foundation in Jiu Jitsu while teaching them confidence, respect, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Not every student will pursue competition, but every child can gain valuable life skills. Seeing our students grow—and perhaps watching one of them represent our community on the Olympic stage—would be an extraordinary achievement.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mommytimecenter.com
- Instagram: @mommytimeashburn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560599521070
