Today we’d like to introduce you to Lakesha Quarles
Hi Lakesha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely! My journey began in the healthcare field as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), where I developed a deep passion for patient care. My experiences in medical assisting inspired me to further my education, earning a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration (BSHA) and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA).
As I continued my work in healthcare, I became increasingly aware of the disparities in maternal health, especially among Black and Brown women. This led me to become a doula and establish *Sunflower Births*, where I advocate for and support families through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
Now, as the Program Director for a Medical Assisting program and a doctoral candidate in Healthcare Administration, I am dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals while also researching and addressing disparities in childbirth. My journey has been about merging education, advocacy, and hands-on care to create meaningful change in maternal health and healthcare education.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—growth rarely is. My journey has been filled with challenges, but each obstacle has shaped me into the professional and advocate I am today.
One of the biggest struggles was balancing my career, education, and personal life. Pursuing advanced degrees while working full-time and later stepping into leadership roles required immense dedication and time management. There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but my passion for healthcare and education kept me going.
Another challenge has been addressing systemic barriers in both healthcare and education. As a Black woman in leadership and maternal health, I’ve faced moments where I had to fight harder to be heard or taken seriously. Advocating for equitable healthcare, especially for Black and Brown women, has been met with resistance at times, but it has only fueled my commitment to making a difference.
Building Sunflower Births also came with its struggles—establishing a business, gaining trust within the community, and navigating the complexities of maternal health advocacy required resilience and continuous learning. However, seeing the impact of my work, whether in the classroom or the birth space, makes every challenge worth it.
Despite the struggles, I wouldn’t change my path. Each challenge has been a stepping stone, and I’m grateful for the journey.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I wear multiple hats, but at the heart of everything I do is a commitment to education, advocacy, and healthcare equity.
My Work & Specializations
I am the Program Director for a Medical Assisting program, where I educate and mentor future healthcare professionals. I specialize in medical billing and coding, phlebotomy, and clinical procedures, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in patient care.
I am also the owner and founder of Sunflower Births, where I serve as a doula and maternal health advocate. My focus is on supporting Black and Brown women during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, addressing disparities in childbirth, and empowering families with knowledge and compassionate care.
What I’m Known For & What Sets Me Apart
I am known for my passionate advocacy in maternal health and my ability to bridge the gap between education and hands-on patient care. My unique background—combining clinical experience, healthcare administration, education, and birth work—allows me to bring a well-rounded perspective to my work.
What sets me apart is my dedication to health equity and mentorship. Whether in the classroom or the birthing space, I strive to empower and uplift others, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge, and support to thrive. I don’t just teach; I advocate, inspire, and create opportunities for change.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on my students and the families I serve. Seeing my students graduate and succeed in healthcare is incredibly fulfilling. Likewise, witnessing a mother feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout her birth experience is priceless.
Additionally, my research on childbirth disparities affecting Black and Brown women is something I’m deeply proud of. The work I do isn’t just about my career, it’s about making lasting change in healthcare and ensuring better outcomes for future generations.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are several ways people can work with me, collaborate, or support my mission!
Work With Me
• If you’re an expecting parent looking for doula support, childbirth education, or postpartum care, you can connect with me through my business, Sunflower Births. I offer compassionate and culturally competent birth support to ensure you feel empowered throughout your journey.
Collaborate With Me
• Healthcare Professionals & Birth Workers – I welcome opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that support maternal health equity, patient advocacy, and education.
• Educators & Organizations – I am available for guest lectures, speaking engagements, and workshops on medical assisting, healthcare disparities, and maternal health advocacy.
• Researchers & Policy Advocates – I’m passionate about addressing disparities in childbirth and maternal health, so I’m always open to partnerships on research projects, policy initiatives, and community outreach programs.
Support My Work
• Visit my website: www.sunflowerbirthsllc.com to learn more about my doula services and how you can support my mission.
• Spread the word about maternal health disparities and the importance of doula support, especially for Black and Brown women.
• If you’re an organization looking to support maternal health equity, consider partnering with or sponsoring educational programs and advocacy efforts.
I’m always open to meaningful conversations and opportunities to make a difference. Feel free to reach out via my website or connect with me on social media!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sunflowerbirthsllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunflowerdoula_kesh/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SunFlowerBirths/
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/Bloom-Baby-Journal-Mom/dp/B0D1KM7DWR
