Nkanyezi Star Mngadi

Chicago, Illinois

Nkanyezi Star Mngadi

24 years of experience

Certified Infant Sleep Specialist | Professional Night Nanny Nkanyezi (“Star”) | 23 Years of Experience | Chicago & Surrounding Suburbs My Philosophy: Helping infants sleep safely and soundly is both a science and an art. With 23 years of experience and certifications in Safe Sleep Infant Training and Child Development: Sleep Training, I bring a structured, nurturing approach to overnight care—ensuring babies rest well and parents wake up reassured. My methods are lasting, gentle, and tailored to each baby’s unique rhythm. How I Support Your Family Overnight: For Your Baby: • Certified Safe Sleep Practices: My training in Safe Sleep Infant Training focuses on SIDS/SUID prevention, ensuring every detail of your baby’s sleep environment aligns with medical safety guidelines. • Developmentally Sound Sleep Plans: My Child Development: Sleep Training certification equips me to understand infant sleep from birth to age 4—including behavioral, medical, and emotional factors that disrupt it—and how to gently correct them. • Consistency & Comfort: Babies thrive with structure and consistency. I maintain and support your baby’s existing routine, so the day flows smoothly after a restful night. From feeding intervals to soothing techniques, I ensure each night supports developmental milestones. • Hands-On Monitoring: I never sleep while the baby sleeps. I observe sleep patterns closely throughout the night, helping identify disruptions and reinforce healthy, lasting sleep habits. • Prepared for the Day Ahead: I prepare bottles for the next day and keep detailed written notes on sleep, feeding, and behavior so parents wake up informed and at ease. If mom is pumping overnight, I label, store, and wash the parts—so she can rest and wake up to clean, ready-to-use equipment. Why Families Trust Me: • Proven Results: My methods are effective through regressions, teething, and transitions—building strong sleep foundations that last. • Trusted by Parents: I have an extensive list of references from families whose babies now sleep soundly thanks to my support. • Professional & Personable: I collaborate closely with parents, respect household values, and always bring a calm, caring presence to the home. Let’s Chat! If you’re seeking a knowledgeable, highly experienced night nanny and Infant Sleep Specialist who leads with care and precision, I’d be honored to support your family. Warmly, Nkanyezi (“Star”)

Darnicia Holt

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (2 reviews)

Darnicia Holt

9 years of experience

Hey! I’m Darnicia, a full-spectrum doula, birth mindset educator, and reproductive justice advocate. TL;DR From organizing protests and fighting for social justice to shutting down systemic abuse, violence, and oppression in the medicalized perinatal care system. My passion? Teaching incredible birthing people — like you — how to trust your intuition❤️‍🔥 and advocate for your autonomy,🗣️ so you feel ✨empowered to be the authority of all your reproductive experiences✨ — fertility to postpartum (or not being pregnant at all). 👀 A little more info… To me, birthwork is inherently linked to social justice and activism. Birthwork is advocacy, and advocacy follows you through every aspect of your life. Therefore, advocacy isn’t something you learn; it’s who you are. I’ve taken what I’ve learned in my years as a social justice organizer and have applied it to birthwork. Sometimes, the fight for my clients to have the reproductive outcomes they desire mirrors the intensity I’ve seen when organizing for human rights. When necessary, I use the same energy it takes to shut down streets and apply it to protect my clients’ experience. What does this mean for you? I have the heart and the skills to fight for your dream birth or whatever support you need. But no worries, I’ll only fight to whatever extent you need or are comfortable with. ☺️ The foundation of the doula role is about the person you are. I am an advocate. Fun facts: I’m a wife and Mom of two. I’m a HUGE Marvel/MCU fan. I L😍VE Thai Iced Tea and mushroom coffee 🍄☕.

Recent review

Darnicia helped us with postpartum care for our newborn and we are grateful beyond measure for her support and expertise. She is very kind, calming, and has a high degree of knowledge. She is such a warm person and we felt well cared for alongside our baby. In the matter of a few weeks, we went from frazzled new parents to having a baby who sleeps through the night multiple nights per week. I highly recommend Darnicia for postpartum care for anyone who is looking to establish healthy routines for their baby and wants to feel very supported in the process.

- Katie J.

ashley Robinson

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (2 reviews)

ashley Robinson

2 years of experience

Hi, I’m Ashley Robinson, a certified birth and postpartum doula passionate about supporting families through one of the most powerful transitions in life—welcoming a new baby. My goal is to create a calm, informed, and empowering experience for every family I serve. I offer emotional, physical, and educational support throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum journey. When I’m not assisting new moms, I enjoy learning new ways to nurture wellness and strengthen family bonds. I believe every parent deserves a positive and supported birth experience—and I’m honored to be part of that journey. 💕

Recent review

I don’t even have the words to express how thankful I am for Ashley. From the very beginning, she made me feel safe, supported, and seen. During my labor, she was my calm in the storm — reminding me to breathe, holding my hand, and speaking life into me when I wanted to give up. She made sure I felt heard and respected every step of the way. I truly believe my birth went the way it did because of her presence and care. Ashley, thank you for being my angel through one of the most powerful moments of my life. I’ll never forget it.

- Margaret M.

Dede Ajavon

Chicago, Illinois

Dede Ajavon

6 years of experience

My name is Dede Ajavon, I am 24 years old and I am currently a Montessori assistant infant teacher. I am a compassionate and experienced childcare provider with over 5 years of hands-on experience caring for infants in daycare and private home settings. I recently completed a Newborn Care Specialist Training Workshop(NCTA), strengthening knowledge in newborn development, feeding, sleep conditioning, and family support. I am dedicated to creating a nurturing, safe, and structured environment that promotes healthy growth and development. I am passionate about helping families transition confidently into parenthood while providing the highest level of newborn care.

Jessica D'Angelo

Chicago, Illinois

Jessica D'Angelo

14 years of experience

Hi! I'm Jessica and I'm a pediatric nurse practitioner. I founded HUDDLE to connect with families for pediatric and postpartum support. We offer in-home night nurses (all Registered Nurses), in-home and virtual lactation support, virtual pediatric telehealth, and virtual postpartum and family mental health counseling. I love connecting with families and supporting them through all of the ups and downs of parenthood. My company is small, and I will be your first point of contact from your discovery call to all of your 2am baby questions.

Seyi Akinwale

Chicago, Illinois

Seyi Akinwale

3 years of experience

I’m Seyi. I have over 15 years of childcare experience in a variety of settings such as a babysitter, nanny, teacher, and now birth and postpartum doula. I am passionate about the field of birth work. After witnessing and hearing about many of the difficulties and abuse of power in hospital settings, my passion for helping people navigate these settings was ignited. It is impossible to guarantee a “perfect birth” but I believe that you should have the opportunity to be prepared for whatever may or may not happen. This includes being aware of medical interventions, having the best people for you in your birthing space, establishing and enforcing necessary boundaries, and ultimately doing the best for you! Childbirth is a beautiful process that is both natural and spiritual.

Maggie Guindon

Chicago, Illinois

Maggie Guindon

3 years of experience

Hi I am Maggie, a registered nurse with NICU experience for last two years! I love working with newborns and their families to help them with their journey in parenthood!

Jnai Truitt

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (1 review)

Jnai Truitt

11 years of experience

I’m a Full Spectrum Doula, newborn care specialist, and boy mom. My infant care journey, trainings, and previous role as a nanny has allowed me to gain a plethora of knowledge about caring for both mothers and their newborns. It has also given me the privilege of supporting moms through the sleepless but undoubtedly euphoric times of the postpartum and newborn stages. I accomplish this by educating and encouraging my families while also providing evidence based care and comfort to their newborn. I know this is an immensely delicate time for every family but its my delight to help transition from womb to room.

Recent review

We had a wonderful experience working with J'Nai as our postpartum doula. She jumped in immediately just a few days after my son was born until he was six weeks old. It was important to me that whoever we worked with felt like a part of our family and never made my husband or I feel uncomfortable. From the beginning, we felt at ease around J'Nai. She has an incredibly calming presence and took such good care of our son. She helped us with little things too - teaching us how to put diapers on properly to prevent leaks, creating a bedtime routine, and sharing words of wisdom that kept us sane during the newborn stage. I am grateful to have worked with J'Nai.

- Stephanie B.

Annette Yen

Holiday Hills, Illinois

Annette Yen

7 years of experience

I’m a Christian bereavement and birth doula in the Northwest suburbs area of Chicago and Southeastern Wisconsin.

Vallen Webb

Island Lake, Illinois

Vallen Webb

7 years of experience

As a Certified Bereavement Doula, I approach each family I serve with deep compassion, respect, and commitment to their healing journey. I believe that every family’s grief is unique, and my role is to provide a safe, empathetic space for them to process, honor, and navigate the profound loss of their baby. My philosophy centers around offering individualized, non-judgmental support that honors each family’s emotions, choices, and cultural or spiritual beliefs. I am here to listen, to hold space, and to guide gently through the moments that feel overwhelming, offering practical resources and heartfelt care along the way. My goal is to help families find small steps toward healing, to feel seen in their grief, and to know they are not alone in their journey. Together, we honor both the loss and the enduring love that remains.

Annamarie Rodney

Chicago, Illinois

Annamarie Rodney

20 years of experience

Anna Rodney, Owner and Founder of Chicago Family Doulas Anna has supported families as a doula since 2009 and is committed to providing families with professional, compassionate, and personal support. Anna gives 200% in all she does in life and brings this commitment and passion to every aspect of her work as a doula. Anna has had the reputation of being a kind, calm, and loving person for as long as she can remember. She has always cared deeply for people and strives to support and care for all around her. She has worked with children and families since she was a teen and later on has supported families in the role of a nanny, preschool teacher, Americorps worker, respite worker, special education teacher, and finally as a birth and postpartum doula. Anna was a special educator for ten years prior to becoming a doula and owner of Chicago Family Doulas. Being a life long learner, Anna earned her Master’s degree in Education as well as multiple degrees in Special Education. She is certified as a labor doula through DONA and CAPPA, as a postpartum doula through ProDoula and CAPPA, certified to teach Hypnobirthing, a CAPPA Certified Lactation Educator, a Certified Newborn Care Specialist, and is a certified Happiest Baby on the Block instructor. Anna is committed to sharing her vast knowledge with the families she works with. She is also committed to training doulas as a labor and postpartum doula trainer through CAPPA and also as a certified CAPPA Childbirth Educator Trainer. As an agency owner, Anna is committed to handpicking the most amazing doulas that the Chicagoland area has to offer. The doulas that work with Chicago Family Doulas are kind, caring, informed, non-judgmental, professional, and 100% committed to the families that they have the honor of supporting. Anna and her team will be an incredible addition to your birth team and postpartum team.

Colette Semenas

Chicago, Illinois

Colette Semenas

8 years of experience

I’ve been in the world of nannying, infant night nursing, and extended stays for the previous 7 years. I have a passion for the early newborn stages, helping create healthy sleep routines that create easy night time transitions for baby, mom, and family! I have advanced training in SIDS Prevention, Infant Safe Sleep, CPR, and Basic First Aid. I use my degree in Childhood Psychology and my experience working on Labor and Delivery as well as volunteering in the NICU at Children’s Hospital to guide my approach to provide research based care. Excited to meet you and your little!

Rachel Bolin

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (2 reviews)

Rachel Bolin

6 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi, I’m Rachel — a doula, birth photographer, and placenta encapsulation specialist proudly serving the Chicagoland area. I grew up in small-town Kentucky and moved to Chicago five years ago. Since then, I’ve been deeply rooted in the birth world, supporting families through every stage of their journey. I’m a full-spectrum certified doula through Sokana’s Full Spectrum Birth Justice Training, with extensive education in lactation and over four years of personal breastfeeding experience. I’m also certified in First Aid and CPR. I accept Carrot clients and will soon be accepting Medicaid, because I believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, personalized support. That’s also why I offer sliding scale payment options for those in need. My approach blends evidence-based care with a holistic touch, holding space for whatever birth looks like for you. Outside of birth work, I’m chasing around my two toddlers, trying new recipes, camping, fishing, and checking out new restaurants — I never say no to a good steakhouse. Let’s schedule a consult and see if I am a great fit for your birth team!

Recent review

Having Rachel on my birth team was the best decision I could have made. She was a rock for me throughout, and was such a source of peace and calm for me. Rachel valued my preferences for my birth plan without judgment and held true to advocating for me at all times. My birth story had many unexpected turns, and Rachel stayed by my side, along with my husband, for the wild ride. I had Rachel with me in the birth center and at the hospital after a transfer was needed. She never missed a beat and took care of me so thoughtfully. From the first interview to prenatal appointments to the actual birth of my first baby, Rachel kept looking out for me and helped me feel empowered throughout my birth journey. She even took pictures and helped transport my placenta for encapsulation, which was so helpful because we remained at the hospital for longer than expected. I felt like Rachel was one of the best parts of my birth story, and I know she would be a wonderful addition to any birth team!

- Harmony Z.

Amanda Nelson

Chicago, Illinois

Amanda Nelson

3 years of experience

Hi! My name is Amanda, I am a DONA trained birth doula, and I am ready to support you on your journey to parenthood! Whether you're planning a home birth, a hospital birth, or anything in between, my goal is to empower you with information, encouragement, and advocacy every step of the way. I believe in honoring your unique journey and preferences, offering non-judgmental support that respects your decisions and desires. I would love to connect with you for a complimentary consultation! Let me buy you a cup of coffee/tea or we can schedule a zoom/phone call.Booking with me will include one in person pre-birth meeting around 36 weeks, on call birth support, and one in person postpartum visit. Text and phone support available starting at time of booking through postpartum visit.

Niaja Livingston

Wheeling, Illinois

5.0 (1 review)

Niaja Livingston

5 years of experience

My name is Niaja, I am as a dedicated and compassionate doula/night nanny, I am committed to supporting families through one of the most transformative experiences of their lives. With a deep understanding of the physical, emotional, and informational needs during childbirth, I offer personalized care and unwavering support. My goal is to empower parents with the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions, ensuring a positive and memorable birthing experience. Through every stage of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, I am here to provide comfort, advocacy, and a calming presence, helping to create a nurturing environment for both the parents and the newborn.

Recent review

Me and my wife found Niaja on Bornbir, recommended by a doctor We had the pleasure of having Niaja as our overnight nanny for our twin newborns, and we couldn't be more grateful for her help. One of our twins required an oxygen machine and needed close monitoring, and Niaja handled it with such care and professionalism. She was amazing, reliable, and trustworthy, always ensuring our little one was safe and comfortable.In addition to her exceptional care, she also helped with washing and sterilizing bottles and keeping up with the baby laundry, which was a huge relief for us. Niaja truly went above and beyond, and we highly recommend her to anyone in need of a dedicated and compassionate nanny. Thank you, Niaja, for everything!

- Chad S.

Molly Mejia

Glenview, Illinois

5.0 (2 reviews)

Molly Mejia

17 years of experience

Hi parents! I am here to support you and your family in whatever way I can to make your experience of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum easier. I am trained as a full-spectrum doula meaning I can confidently support you during pregnancy, at your birth, and in the postpartum period day or night. I have dedicated my life to showing up for mothers so this unique season of life can be filled with magic, support, and re-birth for you. Support on this journey makes a world of difference. Should you run into any issues I am also a licensed therapist and take on clients to help them navigate the sometimes unsettling and roaring seas of unexpected troubles. You are not alone!

Recent review

Molly went above and beyond my expectations helping my family prepare and welcome our new baby. She created a safe space for me in such a vulnerable, stressful, and uncertain time of my life. Molly is reliable, trustworthy, exceptionally smart, and very in tune with her surroundings. She has a kind and comforting energy around her that requires little, if any, need for adjustment. I felt validated, listened to, and understood. Molly helped me feel capable of myself, loved and cared for, and answered to my needs without having to ask. I would not be in the same place that I am without Molly as our doula. I highly recommend her services and couldn't ask for a better person to guide me and my family.

- Madeline H.

Nefertia Jones

Glenview, Illinois

Nefertia Jones

6 years of experience

Hi! My name is Nefertia Jones and I am a Newborn Care Specialist and Postpartum Doula serving families in the Chicago North Shore area. I am passionate about supporting parents as they adjust to life with a newborn, providing both practical guidance and compassionate care to help make the transition smoother and more joyful. With a background in medical training, I bring a strong foundation of clinical knowledge alongside years of hands-on caregiving experience with infants, toddlers, and families. My approach is centered on creating a calm, supportive, and judgment-free environment where parents feel empowered, confident, and well cared for. Outside of my work, I enjoy fostering kittens, visiting new restaurants, and spending time with my husband and our cat.

Zoe Nelson

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (1 review)

Zoe Nelson

2 years of experience

Hi! I’m a responsible and nurturing nanny with a background in Art Education and five years of experience as an elementary art teacher. For the past year, I’ve cared for a newborn and a four-year-old, supporting daily routines and early development. I’m now transitioning into overnight care, bringing a calm, attentive approach to help families get the rest they need. I’m CPR certified, comfortable with infant care and sleep routines, and open to additional training. References available upon request.

Recent review

I’m pleased to recommend Zoe Nelson as a night nanny. Over several months she cared for our newborn and three‑year‑old, allowing my husband and me to sleep soundly. Each morning we awoke refreshed to happy, well‑rested children. Zoe is caring, responsible, and knowledgeable in both infant and toddler routines. She maintained clear logs, anticipated needs, and communicated thoughtfully about each night’s events. Our kids quickly came to trust her gentle approach, and we always felt at ease. Any family would be lucky to have Zoe’s dependable support.

- Suzanne C.

Peggy Yeboah

Chicago, Illinois

Peggy Yeboah

26 years of experience

My name is Peggy Yeboah. I have been a nanny and newborn specialist with 27 years of experience. I love educating parents whether its your first time or third. I am dependable, responsible and love babies.

Naadirah Shapley-Wells

Skokie, Illinois

Naadirah Shapley-Wells

12 years of experience

Naadirah is professionally trained full spectrum doula with over a decade of experience in birth work. She has worked with families throughout Chicago and area suburbs. Naadirah comes to birthwork with a background in child development, family studies, social services, education and nursing. Naadirah is trained and certified in first aid, domestic violence support, CPR for healthcare workers, and mental health first aid.