What made you want to become an IBCLC?

What made me want to be an IBCLC is because I do not know any, who look like me. There is no diversity in my area and I will be the first one in my city that I know that is a woman of color. When I had my 5 year old son I had a horrible experience and was told to not even try to breastfeed because I wouldn't produce milk due to me having two blood transfusions from hemorrhaging. I have never felt so defeated and down about myself after such a traumatic experience that was the last thing I needed. That put the fire in me to be who I needed at that time for others. In my nursing journey I have met so many women that are young and lack knowledge and support, I want to be a support for those women. I want to make a difference in people's lives and that bonding experience between mom and baby when breastfeeding is such a rewarding experience. I have always been a healer and a problem solver and having this opportunity is an extension of that.

What impact do you hope to make as an IBCLC?

The impact I plan to make is a change in health equity for minorities and to provide the best education, effort, and support I can for my clients.

Why is winning Pacify's Diversity in Lactation Scholarship is meaningful to you?

Winning is so meaningful to me because I went for something that is a passion of mine and I was able to be authentic, tell my story and WON. I tell people all the time in a world where you can be anything, be yourself. I stayed true to my vision, my story and my testimony. It was an opportunity for me to showcase who I am as a woman and the wisdom and knowledge I have to give to my future clients. The mentorship was the most important to me because I get to connect and network with another IBCLC that has already been through the process and can help me navigate because it is not easy. I love to learn from people that have experience and will help me grow in an industry that is near and dear to my heart.