Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé
Embracing Tradition. Enhancing Care.
Our History
Where Ideas Evolve into Action
Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé was founded by Sauleiha Akangbe, a seasoned expert with both extensive knowledge of hospital systems in the United States (US), and ancestral birth practices in Nigeria. Recently, Sauleiha was crowned as Oloye (Chief) Yeye Alaweye Agbebi (traditional midwife) for her dedication and hard work within the reproductive justice field and traditional midwifery field. In this work, she has successfully integrated culturally affirming birth practices, traditions, and professionals within a leading US hospital institution. Additionally, Sauleiha trained in Nigeria as a traditional midwife and has facilitated the training of American birth workers and women in ancestral Birth practices. This unique blend of experience and knowledge serves as the foundation for Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé, which bridges the gap between traditional and Western approaches to birth while fostering a holistic and inclusive approach to birthing practices.
Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé addresses maternal and infant health outcomes by gathering experts from other countries beginning in Nigeria and the US to act on an exchange. We aim to:
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Rectify the over-medicalized, reactionary, and overall colonized (western) birth practices.
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Restore spiritual, cultural, and traditional birth methods as practiced by the Agbebi through exposure, collaboration, and training for birth professionals globally
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Refocus on ancestral practices to revitalize birth traditions for pregnant people and all those involved in their care.
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Humanize families in a collaborative approach that centers the idea that "all professions and impacted families deserve to have a seat at the table."
We envision a world where all birthing women, people, and their babies are safe. A world where birth professionals shift from fear-based practices to ones rooted in respect, reverence, honor, and humility. Where we honor the traditions, cultures, spiritual integrity and the innate wisdom of the individuals we serve, while honoring the sacred nature of Mother Earth, our professional work, and the knowledge we all hold. Our mission and vision are carried out through our services and programs.
We aim to unite all birthing professionals across medical and traditional spectrums to bridge divides, foster cross-cultural learning, and preserve traditional birthing practices through compassionate, respectful, and culturally competent knowledge exchange and awareness.
This groundbreaking effort unites the expertise of obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYNs), certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), certified professional midwives (CPMs), traditional midwives (TM), nurses, doulas and Agbebi (Yoruba traditional midwives), mothers and their families from America and Nigeria to begin.
Our Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Our Team is made up of birth professionals, ancestral/traditional specialist, and other professionals from the countries we work in. This team of passionate experts works together to realize the vision of Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé. While our home is in Washington State, USA and Osun State, Nigeria many members of our team work from their home countries. The Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé Board oversees the work of the chief officers.
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Why Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé
The impact of colonization has disrupted traditional birth practices, perpetuating systemic racism and Western dogma in birthing practices. Globally, high maternal and infant mortality and morbidity rates persist, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative solutions that prioritize cultural sensitivity and inclusive care. Colonization has impacted traditional birth practices and hospital procedures globally, promoting practices like unnecessary C-sections, discouraging breastfeeding, and treating mothers and infants inhumanely.
Our Partners
Collaboration Is the Key to Success
Our work would not be possible without the valuable partnerships we have. Thanks to the businesses, organizations and institutions that are willing to sponsor Ikunle Abiyamo, we are able to make a long-lasting impact. We are so grateful!
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Invested in Women
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A Premier Partnership
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Supporting Us Generously
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Ọlọ́mọ Ló L'ayé
Embracing Tradition. Enhancing Care.
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