Ujima
(oo-JEE-mah)
is a Kwanzaa principle that means collective work and responsibility, to build and maintain our community together.
Collective Action, Safer Births: Transforming Black Maternal Health in Arkansas
About Ujima Maternity Network
Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non profit organization established to address the Black Maternal and Infant health crisis in the state of Arkansas experienced by Black (expectant) mothers. Black birth workers and maternal advocates are dedicated to making positive impacts within the birthing community to help ensure Black mothers survive and thrive during their pregnancy, birth and postpartum experiences with advocacy, support and safety.
UMN was founded in 2018 on the third day of Kwanzaa, Ujima, and adopted the principle of doing collective work to build and maintain a healthy community. In 2020 Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. officially became a 501(c)3 non profit organization in the state of Arkansas. Our goal is to build our community with skilled birth workers, including Black midwives, doulas, and lactation consultants throughout the state of Arkansas. We believe that expanding our professional network in the state will aid in the reduction of Black maternal and infant mortality in the state of Arkansas.
The Vision
Reduce maternal morbidity and mortality in Arkansas by reclaiming birth autonomy for women of color through collective work and responsibility of the healthcare system, doulas and midwives of color, and the communities most impacted by birth and birth related mortalities.
The MISSION
Meet Team UJIMA
Nicolle Fletcher
Co-Founder, Visionary, & Executive Director
Read Nicolle's Bio
Nicolle is the owner of Nurturing Arrows Birth Services, where she serves as a certified labor doula, lactation counselor, childbirth educator, apprentice midwife. Nicolle is a natural gatherer and community champion. As the visionary of Ujima Maternity Network, doula trainer, mentor, public policy advocate, and speaker, Nicolle is committed to bringing realistic solutions to address the maternal healthcare crisis. Since 2009, she has actively contributed to the birth community, championing positive birth experiences and outcomes for women across Arkansas. Nicolle’s multifaceted roles not only encompass direct support for birthing individuals but also extend to training and mentoring aspiring doulas, advocating for public policies, and sharing her expertise as a speaker.
Mary
Robinson
Outreach Coordinator and human resources
Read Mary's Bio
As a birth doula and fertility educator, I look at the integrated person, as it was beautifully and wonderfully made. Taking a holistic approach to health, I hope to support women through the journey of better understanding their bodies throughout their reproductive lifespan.
With this background and passion for women’s health, I am blessed to continue this support with Ujima Maternity Network, as a co-maternal outreach coordinator. This role is very important to me, as it takes the aspect of birth and adds the crucial role of community. It truly does take a village to have a baby, and our clinics are a beautiful way to build that village through sisterhood and education.
Nichelle Fletcher
Communications Cordinator NWA
Read Nichelle's Bio
Coming Soon.
Najeé FLetcher
Social media & marketing
Read Najeé's Bio
Najeé brings energy and creativity to the team, using dynamic marketing strategies to amplify Ujima’s mission and connect with diverse audiences across platforms. Excited to be part of a movement that supports Black maternal health. Najeé is dedicated to creating meaningful engagement and raising awareness about Ujima’s impactful programs.
Sarita Hendrix
Doula trainer & Founding member
Read Sarita's Bio
Sarita Hendrix is the owner of Unity Birth and Lactation Services, where she serves as a certified birth doula, lactation counselor, and apprentice midwife. Sarita began her journey in lactation support with the Arkansas Department of Health in 2012 as a WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, expanding her expertise into doula support in 2017.
As a founding member of the Ujima Maternity Network, Sarita is committed to fostering community collaboration and empowerment. Sarita’s strives to be the guiding village for families during the transformative journey of birth and lactation.
Nic FLetcher
Grant Writer & Donor Relations
Read Nic's Bio
Nic is a dynamic professional dedicated to fostering growth in both organizational settings and community-driven initiatives. As a Human Resource Analyst at Ujima Maternity Network, he ensures policy compliance and risk management. In his role as Chief Operations Officer and Co-Founder at Raise Your Limits Outreach Group, Nic leads operations, empowering youth and communities. His broad experience spans digital marketing, project management, and leadership, coupled with a passion for mentorship, sports coaching, and community engagement.
Michael Lee Dotson
Director of Fatherhood Initiatives
Read Micheal's Bio
Coming Soon!
Yejide Kincaid
Co-Outreach Coordinator
Read Yejide Bio
As a passionate certified doula and certified EMT, I’m dedicated to empowering women through every step of their birthing journey. With a focus on creating safe, supportive spaces, especially for Black women, I strive to ensure every mother feels seen, heard, and fully supported during birth and beyond. I’m also driven by my passion for community outreach, working to connect families with the resources and support they need. From preparing physically and emotionally to capturing precious moments through my love of photography, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Founding Members
of Ujima Maternity Network, inc.
Founders in 2018
Founders in 2023
DOULA TRAINERS
