My interest in birth work began during my first pregnancy. I desired a natural birth, but my prenatal care experience was filled with pushback. I expressed my desires and concerns for my birth, but my preferences were often dismissed and very encounter left me feeling unheard. I often left appointments feeling rushed, with many of my questions unanswered. As a result, I found myself turning to Google for information, which only increased my anxiety throughout the pregnancy. Even obtaining basic prenatal care became a stressful experience. Although my OB practice initially seemed open to the possibility of a vaginal birth, it quickly became clear that a scheduled cesarean birth was the expected outcome. My providers were adamant about a surgery and ultimately that was the outcome.

Unfortunately, the experience continued into the postpartum period, when I again felt that my concerns were being disregarded. This was all new to me and there was no guidance about what to expect. I suffered from depression and anxiety that none of my providers realized. My postpartum experience was much harder than it should have been. 

Following that experience, I knew that I wanted to work with pregnant women, I wanted to become a midwife so I could provide better care to moms. At the time, however, pursuing the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) pathway was not feasible for me. I still felt strongly that I wanted to do more—to help other women have pregnancy and birth experiences in which they feel heard, respected, informed, and valued.

I began providing doula support to friends and family members, and in 2020, I completed the Mama Glow doula training after receiving a scholarship. Once I began working as a paid doula, I met two midwifery students who were following the Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) pathway, which gave me a way to pursue the calling I had felt since my own pregnancy. 

My previous education and experiences have also provided a strong foundation for my midwifery studies. I earned a degree in biology from Florida A&M University, which fulfilled my science and mathematics knowledge. I also worked for years in various pharmacies which gave me an extensive knowledge of medications and their reactions during pregnancy.  and allowed me to receive credit for some of my first-semester coursework.

I am particularly dedicated to serving mothers in this area because  I am from Miami. Growing up in South Miami Heights, I saw firsthand how limited reproductive and maternal healthcare options could be in the communities around me. Many families rely on Medicaid, yet access to high-quality, patient-centered care can be limited for those who depend on it. In the community where I grew up, there are very few midwives and birth centers, leaving families with few alternatives for maternity care.

After completing my midwifery education and earning my license, my goal is to return to the community where I grew up and practice as a community midwife. I believe that if someone is pregnant and wants midwifery care, that should be a meaningful and accessible option—regardless of where they live or their financial circumstances. I hope to help make that option a reality for families in my community.

Outside of midwifery, I enjoy spending time with my children, catching up with friends, and, of course, enjoying good food.

-Olivia