Community Highlights: Meet Za’Kiesha Blanks of The Power of Love Birth Services

Today we’d like to introduce you to Za’Kiesha Blanks.

Hi Za’Kiesha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I fell in love with the medical field when I was a little girl. When I was able to go to work with my aunt on take your child to work day. She was a medical assistant working at a health department clinic. I later fell in love with birth after becoming a teen mother. At the time I wanted to be a nurse midwife but because a work injury I could not do the 12-hour shifts on feet. I later talking with a friend I learned about what a doula was and knew that is what I would be. The good thing for me that came from covid is that because most of us were at home. The highlight on birthing people and the black maternal health crisis gave access to a scholarship from Bebo Mia to complete their Maternal Support Practitioner program. I later found my mentor and later business partner Naima Bond. With working most time in rural areas, mostly African American and more non conventual families I realized I will need trainings in many areas. I am now a certified full spectrum high risk doula, certified V-BAC specialist, certified Death doula, certified childbirth educator, certified breastfeeding certified. At this time, I have attended one 130 births. This has led me on a path to now working on because a Midwife specializing in home births. As well as working on becoming an IBCLC and studying for the Maternal mental health practitioner exam.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been. Having the funds hasn’t been easy. I had issues with school at first because I have ADHD and dyslexia. I had to learn my learning style. I later also had a major car accident leaving a birth. I am still recovering from that.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I empower families with evidence-based information and compassionate care. Specializing in inclusivity and mental health. I work with families with births as well as end of life of all ages. I am known for working with all families I honor all religions, races and family structures. I also offer placenta encapsulation and birth listening services. One of my proudest things Is be National Perinatal Task Force Perinatal Safe Spot. What sets me a part is offering a judgment free zone. I believe your body your birth. I am a Count the Kicks State Ambassador as well.

What matters most to you? Why?
Body autonomy – As someone who is a survivor of sexual abuse and domestic violence, I know the importance of being able to make decisions over your own body

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thepoweroflovebirthservices.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoweroflovebirth/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Poweroflovedoula