About

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

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

We train BIPOC birth professionals as doulas and lactation counselors to reach the most marginalized maternal community. We provide free monthly outreaches to increase access to support and community advocacy.

THE TEAM

Nicolle Fletcher

Visionary, Co-Founder & Executive Director

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.

Fatera Herd

Communications Assistant

Fatera is a dedicated advocate for Black maternal and infant health, bringing over 20 years of professional experience to the Ujima Maternity Network, Inc., where she supports the organization's mission to address the Black maternal and infant health crisis in Arkansas. With a passion for fostering positive outcomes within the birthing community, she is committed to ensuring that Black mothers receive the advocacy, support, and safety they need to thrive during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experiences. Beyond her professional achievements, Fatera is a mother who enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and indulging in music and reading. Her commitment to community, advocacy, and collective work is at the heart of her contributions to Ujima Maternity Network, where she strives to help reduce maternal morbidity and mortality among Black women in Arkansas.

Gwen Rivers

Director of Operations & Programs

As the Director of Operations for Ujima Maternity Network, I bring a diverse background in medical, customer service, and insurance. Living in Arkansas, I am deeply committed to my community, especially in promoting outreach within the African American culture. My two home births with both of my children have only strengthened my connection to Ujima, embodying the true essence of what it represents—collective work and responsibility. Guided by core values of integrity and compassion, I strive to make a meaningful impact in my role.
I am a devoted wife, mom, and believer in God. When I'm not working, I love spending time with my family, practicing Pilates, and traveling. My journey is a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting one another.

Yejide Kincaid

Co-Outreach Coordinator

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.

Nic Fletcher

Human Resources

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.

Sarita Hendrix

Co-Founder & Doula Training Coordinator

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.

mary gay

Co- Outreach Coordinator

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.

NAJEE Fletcher

Marketing & Social Media Manager

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.