Every family deserves care that honors their culture, identity, and lived experience—especially during the transformative journey of pregnancy and early parenthood. This month, our Crucial Conversation highlights Black perinatal wellness and culturally rooted mental health support for expecting and postpartum families. 

We are honored to welcome Dr. Jei Watkins, Associate Director of Kindezi Black Perinatal Wellness (formerly EMBRACE at RAMS). A Bay Area native and licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Jei combines clinical expertise and leadership to provide culturally responsive care, therapy, and consultation that empowers families during this critical period. 

About Kindezi: 
Founded in 2021 through a partnership between RAMS and UCSF EMBRACE, Kindezi supports Black birthing families across San Francisco. By collaborating with midwives, doulas, and other birth professionals, the program offers holistic perinatal care integrated with mental wellness support. Kindezi (keen-DEH-see) means “to enjoy taking and giving special care,” reflecting the program’s philosophy of nurturing babies, families, and the broader community. 

Join us to learn how Dr. Jei and Kindezi are transforming perinatal care, fostering family wellness, and building strong community support networks. 

Event Details: 
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (PST) 
Location: Zoom – https://bit.ly/rams-cc 

Please note: This event may include sensitive discussions around domestic violence, birth trauma, and mental health. Step away as needed for self-care.