Faisa Farole is a remarkable individual with a diverse array of skills and passions. With her master's degree in Maternal Child Health Systems and her licensure as a midwife in Washington state, she is deeply involved in maternal and child healthcare. Leading a solo practice in the only Black-owned birth center in the state highlights her commitment to serving marginalized communities and providing culturally sensitive care.

Faisa's dedication extends beyond her practice as she actively mentors aspiring Black midwives, paving the way for the next generation of healthcare professionals. Her nonprofit organization, Global Perinatal Services, demonstrates her commitment to social justice by offering doula services free of charge to low-income, Black, refugee, and immigrant communities.

As a doula trainer and certified lactation counselor, Faisa empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills to support mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Her vision of educating women about their birthing options reflects her advocacy for informed decision-making and autonomy in healthcare.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Faisa enjoys spending quality time with her family, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, and fostering meaningful conversations about current events. Her passion for crocheting showcases her creativity and ability to find moments of relaxation amidst her busy schedule. Overall, Faisa Farole is a compassionate leader and advocate for maternal and child health equity

My name is Denise Felipe. I am GPS’s Perinatal & Lactation Program Manager and Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC). I received my bachelor’s degree in Public Health from the University of Washington. Throughout my career, I had the privilege to work and volunteer with organizations that focused on providing community support to low-income, immigrant, and refugee populations in King County. I am passionate about maternal and child health, health equity, and social justice.

During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, listening to music, and practicing (and promoting) self-care.

My name is Imee Jeanne Pajimula, and I am the Doula Services Coordinator. I have a background as a First-generation Immigrant, Doula, Birth Assistant, and have worked with nonprofit organizations serving low-income, immigrant, and QTBIPOC populations for the past 8 years. I am looking forward to building strong relationships with doulas and the birthing community through this role.

In my free time, I enjoy cooking, making art, and being out in nature with family and friends.

My name is Taylor Kaminski, the GPS Doula Certification Coordinator, Perinatal Case Manager, Birth Doula and Lactation Specialist. Working with GPS has given me the opportunity to contribute in multiple roles within the organization, which I greatly appreciate. Being a doula has truly given me purpose, as I love supporting mothers and their babies during pregnancy, birth, and through the postpartum period as well. As a homebirthing mom of many, I feel very passionate about moms being able to have the births that they want, whatever that looks like. Being there during this special time truly gives me life and has been one of the greatest joys of my journey! I love working with clients from many different cultures and backgrounds; I learn something new with each experience. I started off in early childhood education for many years until I was introduced to doula work through my own midwife. I am so grateful to do this work and to help the communities in need. I have a passion for and thrive on advocating for holistic health, natural birthing, and breastfeeding and sharing this knowledge with as many people as I can.

In my spare time, I enjoy being with my family, being in nature, watching documentaries and researching places around the world, great authentic international cuisine, music and dancing, going to concerts, and living a vegan lifestyle. I also like to garden in the summertime and go to all the beaches as well.

My name is Zeinab Farole. I wear several hats at GPS. I am the Social Media Coordinator, host of Mom’s Corner, and Parent Support Coordinator. I received two degrees from the University of Washington, one of which is a Bachelor’s degree in sociology.

I am passionate about social justice, educational equity, and equity in all aspects of life. In my free time, I love writing, reading, and working out for my physical, emotional, and mental health.

My name is Dua Malkawi, I am the Principal Public Health Researcher at GPS. With a compassionate dedication to healthcare advocacy, I am committed to advancing health equity and justice in underserved communities, with a particular focus on maternal and child health issues among refugees, immigrants, and BIPOC populations in Washington State. My research endeavors focus on mitigating disparities and enhancing the well-being of women, children, and families. I am particularly intrigued by exploring factors contributing to adverse pregnancy outcomes and investigating how healthcare delivery systems, notably prenatal, postpartum, and well-women care, can mitigate risks and foster equity. I hold a Doctor of Medicine degree (MD) from Jordan University of Science and Technology, a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Washington, and a Clinical Research Training certificate from Harvard Medical School. Navigating the complexities of healthcare with a holistic approach, I am dedicated to making meaningful contributions to the field.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I am a devoted spouse and parent of two children. In my free time, I find joy in family moments, nature retreats, beading and jewelry making, and the pleasure of cooking and entertaining.

My name is Asia Farole, and I'm the Community-Based Doula. I am the mother of three beautiful children. I have worked a variety of jobs, attending to the needs of my community. I am a certified interpreter for the medical, legal, and social sectors. I enjoy working as a doula. It is such a rewarding job.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, strolling Coulan Beach with my partner, and hanging out with my sisters.

My name is Sodaba Pahlavi, and I am the Case Manager as well as a Doula and ASQ admin as GPS. Originally, I am from Afghanistan, and I immigrated to the United States around the end of 2021 with my husband. I graduated from the medical faculty with two years of experience in gynecology residency and taking care of obstetric and gynecological patients. I love working with women, especially pregnant women and children.

I love reading poetry books, listening to music, and watching Bollywood movies in my free time.