Shenell Ford leads on lactation advocacy in Springfield

Shenell Ford Recognized as Emerging Black Leader in Massachusetts

By Juliet Schulman-Hall | JSchulman-Hall@masslive.com

As we approach the Juneteenth holiday on June 19, MassLive asked readers and staff to identify Black leaders across Massachusetts making an impact in politics, education, business, and the arts. These individuals are being celebrated for their inspirational work, leadership, and commitment to positive change.

Shenell Ford, age 33, is one such leader based in Springfield. She is the founder of Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness, a community-rooted practice that supports prenatal and lactating families. Her work centers on culturally informed breastfeeding care, equity in professional training, commUNITY breastfeeding classes, and lactation advocacy.

Ford also serves as a mayoral aide to Mayor Domenic Sarno and holds leadership roles with the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition, Springfield’s Maternal Child Health Commission, the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee, and Vital Village Network.

Her journey began with her own experience as a new mother, recognizing the lack of systemic support for lactation in Black and Brown communities. She started as a Breastfeeding Peer Support Counselor with Tapestry North WIC, eventually becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) in 2019. She is also a certified perinatal educator.

“I’m proud yet disheartened to be one of very few IBCLCs of color in the Commonwealth,” Ford said. “Culturally responsive care is vital and diversifying the pool of providers offering lactation services has direct impact on achieving positive health outcomes.”

In her words:
“Find your village and lean in, as often as you need! Especially for those aspiring Black and Brown lactation warriors, align yourself with those currently doing the work, locally, nationally, and globally. In the midst of holding space for our families, make sure to hold space for yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

MassLive continues to spotlight more inspiring leaders each day. To nominate someone for recognition, readers are encouraged to submit their stories using the provided nomination form.