CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Today in our health spotlight, we’re tackling a very important topic: Black maternal health. Joining us is Dr. Jonisha Brown, the Executive Director and Founder, of The WEBE Institute.
The WEBE Institute is a pioneering organization dedicated to improving the health outcomes of Black women and birthing individuals. WEBE stands for Women Empowerment, Birth Equity.
Dr. Jonisha Brown, sharing with us on Charlotte Today, she’s driven by her own personal experiences. Brown founded the institute to address the disparities in maternal health care that Black women face. “Our mission is to empower and uplift Black women through comprehensive support, education, and advocacy,” says Dr. Brown.
Dr. Brown’s journey began with her own challenges during pregnancy and childbirth, experiencing a heart attack that was misdiagnosed, it’s a health scare – that led her to seek better healthcare and support systems for other Black women. These mission of The WEBE Institute, focusing on culturally competent care and community-driven solutions.
We learned, what separates The WEBE Institute’s programs and services apart from traditional maternal health interventions is their holistic approach, and listening ear to the people they serve. They offer tailored support that addresses not only medical needs but also emotional, social, and economic factors. The goal of this comprehensive care model, is to ensure that Black women receive the support they need at every stage of their maternal journey. “We hear from our women and respond in kind to meet their needs.” says Dr. Brown. She adds “we want Black women to hear from other Black women that has had the same lived experiences.”
The WEBE Institute also hosts special gatherings every third Wednesday and fourth Saturday of the month. These events provide a space for community members to connect, share experiences, and receive support. They are an integral part of WEBE’s community-building efforts.
Dr. Brown sharing with Eugene, that communities that engage with WEBE’s programs experience profound transformations. By fostering a sense of empowerment and providing essential resources, WEBE helps communities build stronger support networks. “we know that having healthy women is best for a healthy community and economy” says Dr. Brown. This leads to improved health outcomes and a greater sense of community resilience.
Beyond individual participants, the ripple effects of WEBE’s programs are far-reaching. Families become more informed and proactive about their health, and communities become more cohesive and supportive. This collective impact contributes to long-term positive changes in health and well-being. Viewers can support WEBE’s mission by volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness about the institute’s work. Every contribution helps to improve Black women’s health outcomes and supports the broader community. To learn more about The WEBE Institute and how you can get involved, visit their website WEBEnc.org or follow them on social media on Instagram @WEBE_nc.
Together, we can make a difference in Black maternal health.