Celebrating the Launch of IBCLC Pathway 3 Mentorship at HEAL Academy

The BLACK Collaborative Inc. proudly announces a significant achievement in advancing lactation equity. Alison Williams has been officially approved for the IBCLC Pathway 3 mentorship track through the HEAL Academy – Lactation Equity Training & Professional Development Program. This milestone highlights Alison’s dedication to supporting Black families with culturally responsive lactation care and strengthens the Black lactation workforce.

Alison is providing education and resources @ The 3rd Annual Health Block Party for The BLACK Collaborative Inc.

What the IBCLC Pathway 3 Mentorship Means

The International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credential is a respected certification for professionals who provide expert breastfeeding support. The Pathway 3 track offers candidates like Alison a structured mentorship experience that includes:

• Clinical mentorship with experienced IBCLCs

• Competency-based training focused on real-world skills

• Exam preparation aligned with IBLCE standards

  
  

This pathway is designed for those who have significant clinical experience but need mentorship and formal training to meet certification requirements. Alison’s acceptance into this program reflects her growing expertise and commitment to equitable lactation care.

Alison Williams’ Journey and Commitment

Alison’s approval is more than a personal achievement. It represents her ongoing dedication to serving Black families with culturally sensitive and accessible lactation support. Her work aligns closely with HEAL Academy’s mission to dismantle disparities in breastfeeding outcomes through representation, access, and advocacy.

Her experience in perinatal and infant feeding support has prepared her well for this next step. By engaging in this mentorship, Alison will deepen her clinical skills and expand her ability to support families in ways that honor their cultural backgrounds and unique needs.

The Importance of Expanding the Black Lactation Workforce

Breastfeeding support is critical for infant and maternal health, but Black families often face barriers to accessing culturally competent care. Expanding the Black lactation workforce helps address these disparities by:

• Increasing representation of Black professionals in lactation care

• Building trust within communities through shared cultural understanding

• Improving access to services that respect and respond to specific community needs

  
  

Alison’s progress through the Pathway 3 mentorship is a step toward strengthening leadership and justice in lactation care for Black families.

Lactation education materials used in HEAL Academy training

How HEAL Academy Supports Candidates Like Alison

HEAL Academy provides a comprehensive program that supports candidates through every stage of the IBCLC certification process. Key features include:

• Access to experienced mentors who guide clinical skill development

• Training that emphasizes equity and cultural responsiveness

• Resources for exam preparation tailored to meet IBLCE requirements

• A supportive community focused on expanding Black leadership in lactation

  
  

This program not only prepares candidates for certification but also equips them to become advocates for breastfeeding justice in their communities.

What This Means for the Community

Alison’s approval and participation in the Pathway 3 mentorship will have a positive ripple effect. As she advances toward becoming an IBCLC, she will be better equipped to:

• Provide high-quality, culturally relevant lactation support

• Mentor others interested in pursuing lactation careers

• Advocate for policies and programs that improve breastfeeding equity

  
  

Her journey serves as an inspiration and a model for others in the Black community who want to make a difference in maternal and infant health.

Join Us in Celebrating Alison Williams

This milestone is a proud moment for Alison, The BLACK Collaborative Inc., HEAL Academy, and the communities they serve. Alison’s dedication and progress highlight the importance of investing in Black lactation professionals to create lasting change.

If you want to learn more about the Pathway 3 mentorship or future opportunities with HEAL Academy, please reach out at info@rhecorp.org or visit www.keepersofblack.org.