Advancing Equity in Lactation: Maria Itani interviews Nekisha Killings, CEO of Melanated Mammary Atlas

Ileana Berrios, MS, IBCLC

Maria Itani recently had the honor of interviewing Nekisha Killings, the visionary CEO of the Melanated Mammary Atlas and a leading equity strategist in the healthcare and lactation fields. This powerful conversation delves into Nekisha’s mission to improve equity in lactation support, amplify the voices of underrepresented communities, and inspire systemic change within healthcare. Through her groundbreaking work, Nekisha is reshaping the narrative around representation and inclusivity in maternal and infant health.

Nekisha shared the inspiration behind the creation of the Melanated Mammary Atlas, an essential resource for healthcare providers to understand breast health in people of color better. She explained how traditional medical education often overlooks the unique ways conditions manifest on darker skin tones, resulting in misdiagnoses and inadequate care. The Melanated Mammary Atlas bridges this gap by offering comprehensive visual and educational tools that highlight the diversity of breast conditions. During the interview, Nekisha emphasized that proper representation in medical resources is not just a matter of inclusivity but a life-saving necessity that ensures all families receive equitable care.

In addition to her work with the Atlas, Nekisha spoke about her role as an equity strategist, guiding organizations to dismantle systemic biases and build more inclusive environments. She discussed the importance of creating intentional strategies that address the root causes of inequity, such as diversifying leadership, amplifying marginalized voices, and providing cultural competency training. Nekisha also highlighted the need for authentic accountability, urging organizations to move beyond performative allyship and implement tangible, lasting change. Her work continues to inspire healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers to prioritize equity at every level.

Conclusion

Nekisha Killings’ work as a leader, innovator, and advocate is transforming the healthcare and lactation landscape, creating a more just and inclusive future for all families. Her insights during this interview shed light on the urgent need for representation and equity in healthcare systems. Don’t miss the chance to watch the full interview, where Nekisha shares invaluable advice, actionable solutions, and her vision for lasting change.

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