H.E.R. Institute was born from the vision of founder Meshawn Tarver, who grew up in the vibrant and complex city of New Orleans. Since the age of 14, Meshawn dreamed of a healthier, more empowered community—one where individuals and families could live to their fullest potential.
That vision became personal when she became pregnant with her first daughter. On a quest to find a more natural and empowering birthing method, Meshawn discovered HypnoBirthing—a philosophy that aligned with her belief that childbirth could be a spiritual and transformative experience. Her daughter was born in a birthing center in Bethesda, Maryland, an event she describes as the most spiritual and rewarding moment of her life.
Yet the postpartum experience was difficult. Like many Black mothers, Meshawn faced a lack of support around breastfeeding—dealing with cracked nipples, engorgement, supplementing early, pumping in bathrooms and cars—and ultimately stopped breastfeeding at 10 months. These challenges, however, became the catalyst for her career in public health. Her personal journey led to her first job as a Senior Program Coordinator for Breastfeeding.
With over 16 years of experience in public health, Meshawn has worked across health, education, and social justice to uplift underserved communities. She founded H.E.R. Institute to educate, equip, and empower individuals to become the change their communities need—starting with themselves.
Despite national efforts, Louisiana ranks 49th in breastfeeding initiation, with rates far below the Healthy People 2020 targets. H.E.R. Institute and NOLA Baby Café are committed to changing that.
Our goal is to increase breastfeeding duration and exclusivity by providing community-based lactation support that is inclusive, high-quality, and culturally responsive. We believe in:
- Erasing stereotypes and misconceptions about breastfeeding.
- Breaking down barriers for Black families and underrepresented groups.
- Shifting the culture toward equity in maternal and child health.
Through education, empowerment, and love, we are creating a paradigm shift—one birth, one mother, and one baby at a time.
About H.E.R Institute
Meshawn Siddiq, Executive Officer
Mother of Three Daughters. Sister and Daughter. Tandem Breastfed. Black Muslim. Doula. IBCLC in Training. Generous. Slightly Stubborn. Taurus. Traveler. Baby Whisperer. Public Health Professional.