Black Doula Training

Strengthening Maternal Health through Community Care

This innovative project, a collaborative effort between Regent Park Community Health Centre EarlyON and The Pamoja Institute, seeks to uplift and empower the Black community by training ten Black postpartum doulas.

We believe in the power of community.

That's why our doula trainees hail from Regent Park and Moss Park. These women, being part of the community themselves, understand its unique dynamics and challenges. Their training empowers them to offer culturally sensitive and community-specific postpartum support. By fostering this homegrown network of doulas, we're ensuring that our new mothers receive care and support from individuals who truly understand their community, culture, and needs. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the doula's role but also strengthens the bonds within the community.

Transforming Lives, Strengthening the Community

Through this project, we anticipate a ripple effect of positive outcomes in the community. The training of Black postpartum doulas leads to the provision of culturally sensitive and knowledgeable postpartum care. The newly trained doulas are anticipated to be the pillars of support for new mothers, enhancing their resilience and well-being. This, in turn, lays a foundation for healthier families and a stronger community.

The Need for a Culturally Relevant Curriculum

In a world where most doula training curriculums are Eurocentric, we recognized the need for a curriculum that is reflective of the experiences and needs of Black mothers. That's why we've taken the initiative to develop our own postpartum doula training curriculum. This culturally grounded curriculum embraces the rich history, traditions, and values of the Black community, ensuring that our doulas provide care that resonates with the cultural sensibilities of the mothers they serve.

The Genesis of the Idea

The Black Postpartum Doula Training Pilot is not an idea that emerged in isolation. Its roots are anchored in the tireless work and commitment of Jordyn Gibson, Mackenzie Watson, and Amanda Ottley during their tenure as Leading Social Justice Fellows. Recognizing the pronounced health disparities among Black mothers and babies, these three visionaries dedicated themselves to creating a world where equitable health outcomes become a reality, not a distant dream.

Jordyn Gibson, inspired by the cause, went on to launch her pilot program, CommUnity Doulas, a testament to her commitment. Mackenzie Watson took a leap into the field of medicine, enrolling in medical school with the intent of bringing about systemic changes from within the healthcare sector. Despite their evolving paths, the trio remains united in their mission. They continue to support each other as they work tirelessly towards the shared goal of improving the lives of Black mamas and babies. Their individual journeys, fueled by a shared vision, have paved the way for this groundbreaking project.

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