Quireita’s Story: From South Africa to Doula Dreams with Bebo Mia’s Scholarships!

Meet Quireita, one of our Scholarship Winners!

I’m beyond excited to share my story as one of the recipients of this incredible scholarship! It’s been a long journey to get here, and I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity. So, let me tell you a little about myself, my journey, and why this scholarship means the world to me. My name is Quireita (Q-Ray-Tuh), although I love to go by Q for short. I’m 23 years old, originally from Durban, South Africa.

Women Empowerment after Adversity

Growing up, life wasn’t always easy. 

We have lived in a tiny home, and later moved to a place without lights or running water. Even though things were tough, my parents worked incredibly hard to give us the best life they could. By the time we found a stable home, I was already working during school breaks at the lunch shop and holding a second job on weekends. 

I was tired of watching my parents work so hard, and I knew I wanted to help support them. 

That early drive to make a difference is still a huge part of who I am today. In school, I was an A+ student and earned a full scholarship to study chemical engineering. At the time, it felt like everything was falling into place. But during my final year of high school, my grades dropped, and I didn’t meet the requirements to keep the scholarship. 

In my community, it’s rare for women to be empowered. Many are taught how to be good housewives rather than encouraged to follow their dreams. So, I had to make a choice. Would I stay in my comfort zone, or venture out into the world to find new opportunities? 

I knew deep down that if I was going to succeed, I had to leave home and challenge myself in new ways. 

Start of a new Chapter

In 2019, I took a huge leap of faith and decided to become an Au Pair. That was the start of an entirely new chapter. 

My first flight ever took me from Durban to New York—two flights and two days of travel later, I was across the world, on my own at just 18 years old. Honestly, it was terrifying, but it was also the most empowering experience of my life. It taught me that I could do hard things and that I was capable of so much more than I’d ever imagined. 

After my time as an Au Pair, I continued working in childcare because I found that it was something I was truly passionate about. I’ve been working with children for over 8 years now, and I can say without a doubt that this is where my heart is.

Last year was a year of deep emotions for me. I got married in August 2022, which was one of the happiest moments of my life. But just a month later, I lost my mom to suicide. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through, and it was a stark reminder of why I’ve always worked so hard—to make my mom proud. That goal has never changed, and it’s what continues to drive me every day. 

My Scholarship 

This scholarship is a stepping stone to the future I’ve always dreamed of. I still support my dad and my two younger brothers, who are 9 and 18, back home in South Africa. Having this scholarship means I can continue to send money home to help them without having to cut back on my studies. That support is everything to me, and it’s why I’m so grateful for this opportunity.

So, why did I choose to train with bebo mia? 

I’ve done a lot of research on various programs, but bebo mia’s commitment to inclusivity and community really stood out to me. I love how they empower birth professionals with practical, evidence-based knowledge and how they focus on creating a supportive and welcoming space for everyone. That’s exactly the kind of environment I want to be part of as I take the next step in my career. 

The Doula Calling

Becoming a doula feels like my calling. 

I want to share in the journey of motherhood with other moms, to support them in one of the most important and transformative times of their lives. I know firsthand how crucial it is to have compassionate and knowledgeable support, and I want to be that person for other families. It’s something I can see myself waking up to every day, excited to do. 

Once I’m certified, I have big plans for my doula practice. I want to create a business that emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, making sure that every family feels welcome and supported, no matter their background or circumstances. I plan to offer specialized support for high-risk pregnancies and families dealing with trauma, because I know from my own experiences how important that kind of care can be. 

I also want to partner with local healthcare providers and community organizations, offering workshops, educational classes, and support services that truly meet families where they are. Continuing education is a priority for me too. 

I plan to stay updated with professional development and build a network of birth professionals so that I can provide the best possible care and make referrals when necessary. 

Ultimately, I want to make a positive impact on the lives of families by offering them the support and resources they need during one of the most significant times in their lives. 

This scholarship has brought me one step closer to achieving that dream. I’m so excited to begin this journey, and I feel incredibly blessed to be doing something I love. Thank you so much to bebo mia and to everyone who has supported me along the way—this is just the beginning!

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Congratulations Quireita! We’re so happy to have you training with us! We cannot wait to get to know more about you and your inspiring journey. It’s great to know that becoming a Doula is the path people are choosing to overcome adversity and transform their own lives. Your decision to embark on this journey is a testament to your strength and resilience, and we’re excited to witness the incredible impact you’ll make in the lives of others as you empower and support families through their most meaningful moments as a Doula.

If you ever need anything, we’re here to support you along the way!