Eumelia Yerena Cerdán, "Mely" is my aunt, a community-based perinatal educator, doula, and advocate in Veracruz, Mexico, who has been accepted to present her work at the International Maternal Newborn Health Conference (IMNHC) 2026, one of the world’s most influential gatherings for maternal and newborn health

Her session,“Autonomy and Care in Afro-Descendant Motherhood: Adaptations and Strategies from Community Practice”, highlights a reality that is rarely visible on global stages:

The lived experiences of Afro-Mexican women navigating pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum amid structural discrimination, limited access to respectful care, and social exclusion.

For years, my aunt has worked with minimal resources but extraordinary dedication to create safe spaces for women, develop self-care guides, facilitate support circles, and design micro-innovations that allow vulnerable women to experience dignified, culturally respectful, community-rooted maternal care. These are practical, replicable solutions born directly from the community.

Her selection to IMNHC 2026 affirms that what she has built in Veracruz carries global relevance, particularly for African and Afro-descendant populations worldwide.

But like many frontline community workers, Mely does not have the financial means to travel to Nairobi.

Flights, accommodation, meals, and conference logistics exceed what she can cover on her own.

This campaign aims to make possible what her talent and dedication have already earned:

the opportunity to bring Afro-Mexican maternal health wisdom to a global audience.

Your support will help ensure that:

The voices and experiences of Afro-Mexican women are heard on an international stage.

Community-driven solutions can inspire programs in Africa and beyond.

Eumelia can continue strengthening her work at home, empowered by global connection and recognition.

Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps her journey from Veracruz to Nairobi become a reality.

Thank you for helping a community leader share her knowledge with the world.