Ujima (oo-JEE-mah) ​is a Kwanzaa principle that means collective work and responsibility, to build and maintain our community together.

About Us

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

Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. aims to be The Resource for Black women, providing them with a full service maternity experience. 

board of directors 2023

President Dr. Phillip Fletcher   
Vice President Victoria Flowers    
Treasurer Kayla James    
Secretary Fernando Salazar      
Co Founder & Visionary  Executive Director Nicolle Fletcher                  
Co Founder Sarita Hendrix
Angela Brooks  
Christopher Flowers                
Julia Kollmyer                                    
Latoya Young