Our Doulas

 

Marsha Jones

Marsha Jones is a passionate advocate and community organizer, co-founder of The Afiya Center, a leading reproductive justice organization in Texas. Born and raised in Joppee, Texas, Marsha is deeply connected to her South Dallas roots. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, her commitment to family and community shines through her work. Witnessing the impact of the HIV epidemic on Black women, Marsha co-founded The Afiya Center in 2008 to address the lack of support for marginalized women at high risk of HIV. Under her leadership, the organization adopted a Reproductive Justice framework, tackling systemic inequalities affecting Black women. Beyond the center, Marsha actively participates in coalitions to drive policy changes in reproductive healthcare. Her efforts extend internationally, advocating for women's rights in Africa. Recently, she launched the Marsha K. Jones Academic Scholarship for Black women and girls, reinforcing her dedication to education and equity for the next generation of leaders.

Helen ZIMBA

Helen Zimba is an international HIV and reproductive justice leader based in Dallas with a professional background in business management, communications, and community health. With over 20 years of experience, she has served on grant review committees for major health organizations and held various leadership roles, including chairing the HIV Planning Council and actively participating in the Positive Women’s Network USA. Helen volunteers for multiple causes, including mission work in Malawi and AIDS Walk South Dallas. She is the HIV Program Manager at The Afiya Center, focusing on developing impactful HIV programs and building partnerships using the Reproductive Justice framework. Helen is also a graduate of the GLOW and Escalate programs by NMAC and participates in the AIDS United Training Program.

QIANA LEWIS-ARNOLD

Qiana Lewis-Arnold, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, has dedicated over 20 years to healthcare sales and management, with a focus on improving lives. Her passion for birth and reproductive justice began at age 15, leading her to provide integrative support for reproductive rights. After moving to Texas, Qiana trained as a doula and became a certified yoga instructor and root worker, offering holistic healing and empowerment. Transitioning from corporate America, she became Co-Birth Justice Lead at The Afiya Center and founded Free Spirit Doulas. In 2023, she became the president of the Texas Doula Association, advocating for doulas' rights and standards. Qiana's journey reflects her commitment to empathy, advocacy, and individualized care, shaping the future of reproductive justice.

D’ANDRA WILLIS

D’Andra Willis is a dedicated full-spectrum doula and childbirth educator committed to empowering birthing individuals through transformative experiences. Her passion for reproductive justice, health equity, and social justice is evident in her work. D’Andra believes in supporting individuals as experts in their own experiences, providing educative care that empowers informed decision-making. Her approach integrates emotional, physical, and spiritual guidance, respecting childbirth as a sacred rite of passage. With a background in education and cosmetology, she excels in teaching and guiding, enriching her practice. As a Reproductive Justice advocate, D’Andra focuses on reducing disparities in maternal mortality, HIV advocacy, and championing birth and abortion justice, centering the experiences of Black women. Pursuing certification as a Birth Assist, she demonstrates dedication to enhancing her skills to better serve her community. As the Birth Justice Program Coordinator, D’Andra strives for a future where liberation in childbirth and reproductive care is a reality for all, making a profound impact on individual lives and broader societal narratives.