Photo of Aliyah Daniels
Lactation Counselor
Development Manager, Laurence School
PHTM ’18
She/Her
If Aliyah Daniels could summarize her experience working alongside breastfeeding people and their families in one word, she would describe it as magical. She has felt this work has been her calling since watching her mother care for her younger brother, and as someone who loves problem-solving, she finds her role both rewarding and fulfilling.
“I’m a big fan of all things reproductive health and have wanted to be a certified nurse-midwife for ages,” said Daniels. “Pregnancy and postpartum can be stressful, even with huge amounts of support, and significantly impact our most vulnerable communities. I’m eager to champion reproductive wellness and hold space for the birthing process in any capacity.”
Daniels also serves as Development Manager at Laurence School, a primary school that centers social, emotional and physical development in children’s educational journeys.
“I’ve always been drawn to work that’s nurturing and empowering,” explained Daniels.
Daniels explored her interest in reproductive wellness as an intern in Newcomb Institute’s Reproductive Rights and Reproductive Health Internship Program. The program gave her the opportunity to work with Lift Louisiana, a local nonprofit organization that focuses on crafting policy solutions that benefit women and families. Daniels helped them organize the Justice for Louisiana Women Advocacy Day at the Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge.
“I was beyond excited to be in the presence of such dynamic organizers,” recounted Daniels. “We partnered with The New Orleans Abortion Fund, Planned Parenthood, The National Council of Jewish Women – NOLA, Feminist Majority Foundation, National Organization for Women, and Women With a Vision. It was incredibly inspiring to see the local community galvanized to create change across different legislative areas–from environmental justice to gun violence and maternal healthcare.”
Daniels also expressed her immense gratitude to the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine for giving her a solid foundation in understanding maternal health.
“I graduated braced with a global perspective on real-world issues, and I credit Tulane’s robust academic opportunities for that support,” said Daniels.
On the topic of the future, Daniels’ manifestations for herself are simple.
“Healthy, joyful, and surrounded by love. The rest is gravy!”