Maternal Wellness, Loss, and Taking Control
Join Dr. Safiyya Shabazz for an enlightening discussion about maternal wellness and the vital role of doulas in improving birth outcomes for Black women. Featuring expert guests from Cocolife.black who share insights on maternal support, advocacy, and healing. watch episodeLISTEN TO EPISODE
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Episode Title: “Maternal Wellness, Loss, and Taking Control”
In this profound and enlightening episode of Together We Walk, we are thrilled to welcome the iconic poet, educator, and activist Nikki Giovanni. With a career spanning over six decades, Nikki has used her powerful voice and transformative poetry to address social justice, personal identity, and the struggles of the human experience. Her works have inspired generations to embrace resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of community.
During this conversation, Nikki explores how poetry and storytelling can serve as tools for healing and mental health. She opens up about her own journey — from navigating the challenges of the Civil Rights Movement to processing personal and collective traumas through creative expression. Nikki discusses how words can offer comfort, clarity, and catharsis in times of struggle, and how poetry empowers us to confront difficult emotions with courage and honesty.
We delve into the role of art in fostering resilience, particularly in marginalized communities, and how creative outlets can serve as a bridge to mental and emotional well-being. Nikki shares personal anecdotes, reflections on the intersection of activism and art, and her thoughts on why self-expression is a vital part of self-care. Her warmth, wit, and wisdom shine throughout the episode, offering listeners a reminder that even in the most challenging times, creativity can be a light that guides us forward.
Whether you are an artist, an activist, or someone seeking ways to nurture your mental health, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights. Nikki’s message underscores the importance of finding our voice, telling our stories, and supporting each other on the path to wellness.
Join us for this enriching and uplifting conversation that honors the enduring power of poetry to heal, uplift, and transform.
Alexia Doumbouya
MSL, Certified Postpartum Doula, CMHA<br /> President of Cocolife.black
Tenured Operations leader & Professional Consultant.
My experience has afforded me the opportunity to partner with numerous individuals and organizations, domestically and internationally. Contributing to business growth, improved customer experience internally and externally, and the opportunity to offer solutions while leading projects for new & existing business initiatives, has lead to successful implementations and acheviement of optimal results.
I am people centered and process evaluative; what do I mean? I understand organizational processes are in place for particular reasons, some which would predate my employment. I am also clear positive experiences are only as strong as the people governing these customer-facing departments. I work with my team(s) to marry the organizational vision with that of the associates supporting the team. It is at that sweet spot where maximum production and employee engagement will occur.
Ericalynn Cotton
Founding Member & Certified Breastfeeding Counselor
My name is Ericalynn Cotton, and I have worked in women’s health as a Registered Nurse for almost 8 of the 12 years that I have been a nurse. I have a passion for Women’s Health and worked with many women in different capacities. I am also a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor.
As a nurse, I helped women in the health care setting. However, I always felt work was needed in black and brown communities.
I am one of the founding members of CocoLife.Black. It is an amazing organization
created by black women, targeting an audience of black and brown women. We provide a host of resources for mothers to assist them during any of the three key maternal stages: pregnancy, postpartum, and compassion (for the loss of a child or significant loved one).
Helpful Resources
- List of Poetry
- Report for 2024
- Link to Statistics Database
In Case You Missed it #icymi.
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