AMANI Birth Affiliate Number: K550144

Training Location: Kuwait

Date of Training: January 2017

AMANI Birth profile: https://amanibirth.com/Afnan.alsaleh/

 

Why did you choose to become an AMANI Doula/CBE?

We didn’t have enough childbirth educators in the community.

How has AMANI affected your life?

AMANI Birth has affected me as a mother.  My birthing experiences are so powerful and controlled by me. As an educator, I’m blessed with all the duas; grateful, happy, and content families and the whole vibe of female empowerment.

How does your work as an AMANI Doula/CBE fulfill you?

I love how a few hours of education can change someone’s beliefs and ambitions. A few moms I taught had only wanted vaginal births initially, but after teaching them a few classes they wanted more. They started looking at natural comfort measures, they shopped for doctors, and they engaged their partners to assist with their births. I also love that families are more aware of their rights and choices. Some attended the classes thinking only medical professionals have a say in their births but when I explained their birth rights such as requesting consent from the mother, it gave a lot of depth to the birthing process.

What do you love the most about being an AMANI Doula/CBE?

The availability! AMANI Birth is accessible in both Arabic and English.  The classes can be taught online, so any expectant family can attend a class and the student books are always on hand. The online and in person workshops help me stay up to date and the parents' book and educator's manual are ready for all who need them.  Additionally, I love how we are all connected through social media and share our experiences and learn.

What is your birth philosophy?

Empower and educate the expecting family, and we are ready for anything.

What challenges do you face doing this work and how do you overcome them?

The value of our work is underestimated. In the Arab/GCC countries it’s a new concept, of having someone outside of the family to attend the birth.  Families trust medical staff with their white robes unconditionally and unquestionably. We are all still working to be more involved in the birthing world.

What have you been involved in as an AMANI Doula/CBE that touched your heart or confirmed why you do this work?

The way they look at me when I tell them they have a choice and they can say no or ask questions to the medical team.

What are your hobbies or activities outside of your AMANI Doula/CBE work?

I’m volunteering with Birth Kuwait.

Is there anything more you would like to say?

Thank you

 

You can follow Afnan's work on social media:

Instagram: @mentormother

Facebook: Mentor Mother Kuwait