Grand Marshalls

By Scott Holland

I am very excited that our two Grand Marshalls for the Stonewall Parade this year are Real Housewives of Miami star Julia Lemigova and one of our local community heroes Ederick Johnson. Below I have interviewed them, so you get to know a little bit more about these two fabulous human beings.

Julia Lemigova is a Russian-born TV personality, actor, fashion model and former Miss USSR currently starring on the reprise of The Real Housewives of Miami. She represented the Soviet Union at the Miss Universe 1991 pageant, where she placed second runnerup. Julia moved to Western Europe after being crowned Miss USSR and relocated to Paris, where she opened her first well-being center, Joiya Spa, in 2003, and launched a skincare and spa line, Russie Blanche, in 2009. As a successful international fashion model, Julia has worked with high-end quality brands travelling all over the world for over a decade. Her modelling career ran from 1991 to 2005 until the birth of her first child. Julia has also had a range of television roles, mostly in the UK. Julia made history as the first openly LGBTQIA+ housewife to be a part of the Bravo franchise and is married to tennis royalty Martina Navratilova.

How did your second season of “Miami Housewives” treat you?

I love being a part of the Housewives sisterhood. Unfortunately, this most recent season was a little tough because we had to watch a family fall apart. But I am really proud of the way we were able to come together and support Lisa. Our show is about real friends dealing with real life issues and I believe that is what resonates with people.

How have you adapted to being an empty nester?

My life is always evolving! I had Vika graduating college and Emma graduating high school this month. Even though my girls may not be home full-time, being a mother never stops.

How are your animals, and are there any new ones?

Just like my life, the farm is in constant evolution. We just welcomed 3 new baby goats this spring.

How is your wife Martina recovering from cancer?

I am so proud of my champion! She amazes me every day! Right now, we are still putting all of our energy into Martina and her health. We are thrilled she is back working and has resumed doing several of the things she loves.

How has your relationship changed, if at all?

Martina's resilience and commitment to positivity has inspired me to take on new challenges and not let fear dictate our lives. Describe yourself in 3 words? Mother, wife, animal-lover.

What do you do for fun?

I like to be on my farm with my animals. I love caring for other living things and the routine of my farm relaxes me.

Is there something about you we would be surprised to know?

I can throw a pretty-mean punch in the boxing ring.

We are so excited to have you as one of our Grand Marshalls of Stonewall Pride. What made you want to do this?

I can't sit silently as our community is routinely coming under attack in Florida. I want LGBTQ+ people across our state to know they have a voice and an advocate in me, and what a better way to show my support than standing strong alongside my brothers and sisters at Wilton Manors Pride.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride is both a call to action, and the ability to be me comfortably, and unapologetically me. Growing up in Russia, I never thought I would have the chance to openly march in the streets as a proud LGBT woman.

What does the future hold for you?

I want to be a source of light and of strength for my wife, my daughters and my community. And of course, I'll continue keeping people updated with my animals on the farm on my Instagram page, @JuliaLemigova.