4: The Virtual International Day of the Midwife - Raquel Justiniano

Getting to Know Raquel, committee member for VIDMHi! My name is Raquel Justiniano. I´m from Bolivia, residing and working as a midwife in Argentina. I’m currently studying a postgraduate diploma* specializing in Emergency Obstetrics and Gynecology. I developed an interest in maternal and newborn health while finishing my nursing career and later on when volunteering, assisting women´s health in a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Bolivia. Meanwhile, I helped coordinate an independent social communication project with an emphasis on humanitarian aid. Since then, there have been three things that I´m passionate about: the physiology of birth and the factors needed to promote gentle, dignified births, women´s sexual and reproductive rights, and the work of health professionals in conflict zones. I advocate for birthrights, which are under threat in some institutional settings which fail to recognize pregnancy and birth as a natural and physiological process of the human body. I´m currently putting a great emphasis on prenatal classes, which are fundamental for healthy pregnancy outcomes, empowering women to trust their body and make informed decisions. I´m continuously searching for courses, participate in conferences, workshops and reading search findings – this is how I came to know about VIDM. VIDM is another door to a new experience. Being part of the committee and sharing a common passion for women´s health and newborns is an honor and a great opportunity to enrich myself with outstanding professionals.   I´m very excited about this VIDM 2020, as we have marvelous midwives who will share their knowledge and work experiences through a FREE online platform! This is amazing! I invite you all to take this chance and join the VIDM2020. I´m looking forward to connecting and learning from all of you!