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 Zeinab Farole. I wear several hats at GPS. I am the Communications and Resource Development Manager and host of Mom’s Corner. 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.

Ekua-Yaaba Monkah, Doula Program Manager
Hi, I’m Ekua-Yaaba Monkah (she/her), and I serve as the Doula Program Manager at Global Perinatal Services. My passion for Black maternal and child health—and for reproductive justice—started when I was young, shaped by the stories of mistreatment that the women in my family experienced at the hands of medical providers in the U.S.

That calling led me to become a certified doula through Cornerstone Doula Trainings in Oakland, CA, in 2020. Fun fact: my very first client was my older sister in 2022!

I earned my Master of Public Health in Epidemiology (Maternal and Child Health) from the University of Washington in 2024, where I built a strong foundation in research, data analysis, and public health leadership. Over the years, I’ve worked across multiple sectors of public health—including community-based nonprofits, a Black-led private implementation science firm, and a local tribal health department.

At GPS, I’m committed to ensuring that doulas have the tools, resources, and support they need to help birthing people and their families thrive. Outside of work, you can find me exploring new restaurants with friends and family, working out, journaling, or binge-watching reality game shows.

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.

My name is Ayan Hassan, I am the East African Case Manager and doula at GPS. I have worked in many different fields serving the community and my greatest passion is supporting families as a doula, a spiritually rewarding and fulfilling job. Being able to provide emotional support and guidance to expecting mothers and their families during the childbirth process is a beautiful thing to experience.

In my free time I enjoy spending it with my family and friends, traveling the world and doing henna art.