Esther Kimani B.A., CD(DONA), LCCE, IAIM

Esther Kimani is a passionate Doula and Infant Care Specialist based in Nairobi, Kenya. She holds multiple certifications, including DONA-certified Birth Doula (CD, DONA) & DONA Birth Doula Trainer, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (LCCE), and Spinning Babies Parent Educator (SpBCPE). Esther is also an approved Lamaze Trainer and a Certified Lactation Specialist, specializing in infant nutrition as a Certified Infant and Young Child Nutrition Advisor. Additionally, she is a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (IAIM) and holds a Bachelor’s in Education from Kenyatta University, as well as a postgraduate diploma in Child Study and Human Development. With over 15 years of experience, Esther leads Mom 360 Support, a practice committed to helping parents navigate their parenting journey from pregnancy through birth. She empowers parents with the knowledge, confidence, and care they need every step of the way.

Session

Impactful Collaboration, Doula Integration Strategies: A Global Perspective

This panel discussion will explore impactful strategies for integrating doulas into hospital settings through a global lens, highlighting real-world successes and challenges. Drawing from case studies in Kenya’s Lwala community and analyses from several facilities participating in the Doula Friendly® Initiative of over 100 clinical and nonclinical providers in the US, participants will examine how collaboration between doulas and healthcare teams enhances the birthing experience, strengthens patient advocacy, and fosters trust between hospitals, doulas, and communities.

Through engaging discussions, videos, and interactive technology, attendees will explore strategies to overcome barriers and foster seamless collaboration between doulas and healthcare teams. The session will also provide practical advocacy strategies for sustainable doula inclusion, including workforce development and policy initiatives that ensure equitable access to doula care. Designed to be interactive and thought-provoking, this special session will equip doulas and healthcare professionals with the tools to advance respectful, patient-centered perinatal care across diverse settings.