Where do you work?
I’m a full time birthworker, business owner, and mom. I’m the co-founder and CEO of Chicago Birthworks Collective, and also the founding executive director of The Love Package Project. All of my work is centered around maternal health promotion and innovation.

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to about your partnership with Women Unite!?
Really looking forward to the energy exchange that exists when hardworking, mission driven women are in the same space. It’s really a soul filling experience that allows me to feel so motivated and recharged when the work begins to feel heavy.

What’s an issue (social or political issue) you care deeply about? Why?
Access to affordable and high quality childcare is extremely important to me. All that I’ve been able to accomplish in my lifetime as a mother has been a result of the unique ways my village has shown up for me with childcare support and honestly the need is still exponential. I believe that parents who are equipped with quality childcare that is dependable are afforded the ability to reach for wellness in ways that others aren’t and when parents are well supported everyone they are connected benefits.

This work is hard. What’s one way you take care of yourself?
I stay up late and watch P Valley (and other shows) religiously. I love being able to experience the lives, stories, victories, and fears of Black characters. I also immerse myself in wonderful music. Sensual musical experiences are very meaningful to me, so I’m always listening to music. Loudly.

What’s a hobby you have?
Roller Skating. I make my best effort to catch at least one skating session a week and love skating with my children and my mom at home.

What gives you hope?
Serendipitous moments give me hope. Being in the right place at the right time and seeing something that I recognize as divinely orchestrated is what allows me to rest into knowing that us humans are only one part of the puzzle. The other parts are often stronger than, wiser than and more all knowing than us.

Fun/random fact you want to share?
I got my first tattoo when I was 12 years old and I’m so very proud of it. My sisters and I share that tattoo.

What’s one of your favorite local Chicago businesses?
Afro Joe’s Coffee Shop. It’s owned by a Black family with children and their food and energy is always on point.