Athena Guice Email & Phone Number

Born in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Broward County, South Florida, my educational journey took a unique turn when, at the age of 16, I joined the College Academy at Broward College. Focused on becoming a Physician’s Assistant, I co-founded the first Broward College chapter of Dream Defenders at 17, an organization dedicated to social justice and a vision away from oppressive systems. By 18, I served as the chapter’s Vice President, organizing around educational reform and earning my Associate’s degree in Biology. Around this time, I realized my passion lay in community-based healthcare rather than clinical roles. At 18, I became one of the youngest instructional staff for Broward County Public Schools and, the following year, a mother. This prompted me to question the lack of accessible perinatal resources in my community, leading me to explore paths as a doula, maternal health therapist, or lactation consultant. Responding to the community’s call, I founded Hija Del Sol Birth Services in 2016, advocating for lactation and postpartum support in the birth justice, reproductive health, and maternal wellness space in South Florida. Simultaneously, I joined the YMCA of South Florida’s Health Innovations & Strategies team, focusing on maternal health projects and community health worker programs. Amid the pandemic, I developed a Full Spectrum Doula training program, blending traditional doula education with evidence-based practices and reproductive justice principles. Despite uncertainty, I continued community advocacy, serving in the Florida House of Representatives as a District and Legislative Aide for House District 99, while pursuing a Bachelors in Psychology and Communications at Florida International University.Recognized for my dedication, I was honored as 'Top 22 of 2022' by the National Black Caucus of State Legislators Legislative Staff Leadership Council for my ’sincere professionalism’ and dedication to service.’ As a Black and Puerto Rican mother, my commitment to maternal and reproductive activism is deeply rooted in my heritage, language and policy navigation, a career as a doula, and collaborative efforts for a more equitable future. Passionate about reproductive rights, I seek collaboration with organizations to leverage my skills and build legislative alliances. As the newest Senior Program Coordinator for the Eastern and Central Region of The United States at the Reproductive Health Access Project’s NETWORK, I work to build power through solidarity to advance reproductive health access and justice.I love writing, jazz, & the beach.