Bridging Cultures: Collaborative Birthing Practices in Nigeria and the USA Welcome to our blog post titled "Bridging Cultures: Collaborative Birthing Practices in Nigeria and the USA." Today, we are excited to share with you the inspiring work of Ikunle Abiyamo, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant health outcomes and addressing the impact of colonization on birthing practices. At the heart of Ikunle Abiyamo is its founder, Sauleiha Akangbe, a visionary leader who has successfully integrated culturally affirming birth practices within a leading US hospital. With her extensive knowledge of US hospital systems and her studies as a traditional midwife in Nigeria, Sauleiha has been able to bridge the gap between traditional and modern birthing practices. One of the key initiatives of Ikunle Abiyamo is the development of hybrid birthing practices through collaboration between traditional midwives in Nigeria and birthing practitioners in the United States. This collaborative approach aims to address health disparities and improve overall outcomes by combining the wisdom of ancestral knowledge with modern medical advancements. To facilitate this collaboration, Ikunle Abiyamo will be hosting virtual listening sessions for birth workers in both countries. These sessions will provide a platform for sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and fostering cross-cultural learning. Following the virtual sessions, on-the-ground observations and support will be provided to promote uncolonized practices such as alternative birthing positions and natural tearing. Advocacy plays a crucial role in the mission of Ikunle Abiyamo. The organization aims to engage with policymakers to advocate for systemic changes that promote inclusive and respectful care. Additionally, Ikunle Abiyamo plans to establish a birth center in Nigeria, where US providers can participate in observational learning and further enhance their understanding of traditional birthing practices. The website for Ikunle Abiyamo will serve as a hub for information and engagement. It will feature sections dedicated to the organization's mission, values, and goals. Visitors will have the opportunity to subscribe, donate, and register as members to stay connected with the initiative. The website will also showcase a map highlighting the locations where the team members are working, emphasizing the global reach and impact of the organization. In designing the website, Ikunle Abiyamo aims to create an inviting and inclusive visual experience. Diverse photos, primarily featuring BIPOC individuals, African and African American pregnant women, will be incorporated to celebrate the cultural diversity of birthing experiences. The use of a curved type design and earth tones will create a warm and natural feel, reflecting the organization's commitment to restorative traditional practices. At Ikunle Abiyamo, we believe that by empowering traditional midwives, embracing collaboration with diverse healthcare professionals, and adopting a socially responsible approach, we can create positive change in birthing practices globally. We invite you to join us on this journey of cross-cultural learning, celebration of traditional knowledge, and promotion of inclusive and respectful care. Stay tuned for updates on our website, where you can learn more about each initiative within Ikunle Abiyamo and even request registration for retreats and join travel efforts to learn about different traditional birthing practices. Together, let's bridge cultures and create a brighter future for maternal and infant health.
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