Sevonna Brown’s mission for health equity began at age 13 after two coinciding tragic losses in her family. She began chasing the calling before she knew her grandmother’s legacy in healthcare had sparked the passion within her. Her commitment to the well-being of all people is a powerful testament to relentless passion and a fierce commitment to change. From the streets of New York to villages across the globe, her hands-on advocacy has transformed thousands of lives. As a trained birth worker, maternal health advocate, and culture keeper, Sevonna has worked tirelessly to dismantle medical racism and ensure Black women receive the care, dignity, and respect they deserve. Through initiatives like the Safer Childbirth Cities project with Merck for Mothers and leading global maternal health conferences, she has empowered communities and reshaped policies, delivering support, education, and hope to those who need it most. During the pandemic, she saw gaps in holistic care and support for those needing it most, inspiring her to found and launch Sanctuary for Integrative Medicine.

Sevonna’s influence stretches beyond communities to institutions and future generations of doulas, midwives, health workers, and caregivers. As a trusted trainer at colleges, universities, and organizations like CVS and Aetna, she is shaping the next wave of health advocates with a commitment to equity and cultural competence. Recognized as a Gates Millennium Scholar and NGen 2023 Fellow, and a Principal Investigator for the NY-CHAMP Center of Excellence, Sevonna is igniting change with every life she touches, calling the world to action to build a future where all women can thrive.