Meet Bianca Comer of Our Mothers and US (OMUS) in South Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bianca Comer.

So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Well, I was born and raised here in Phoenix, Arizona and like many people I went to college after high school, etc. etc.  Graduated from the University of Arizona with both a Bachelors and Master’s degree in Public Health/Global Health.  Outside of that though, I’ve always LOVED babies (laughs). Anything infant, maternity, or pregnancy-related, I love it- anatomy and physiology, research, the social and cultural aspects.

These things are of interest to me, bring me joy. Which is why I am led to serve the population that I do- women, babies, and families. My first job after college was with the Maricopa County Public Health Department working as a Community Health Worker for the South Phoenix Healthy Start Program (a maternal and infant mortality reduction program). I worked directly with pregnant women and their families- conducting home visits, providing health education/resources, and holding babies! What I enjoyed most about the job was that I was able to connect with women (oftentimes who were just like me- young and black) and contribute to their health and well-being. Since leaving Healthy Start, I’ve longed to stay connected in that way…within the community, with other advocates and local organizations alike. That is what Our Mothers and US (“OMUS”) is all about.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road, but I wouldn’t say it’s been a bumpy one either.  I would describe it more as a roundabout (laughs). One challenge that I have struggled with that I feel most people may be able to relate to (especially millennials like myself) is figuring out what to do with this life I’ve been given.  What to do with all of my talents, passions, or for some, the lack thereof.

What do you do if you’re interested in multiple things? What if you’re multi-talented (I am also artistically gifted- drawing, painting, etc.)? How do you toggle between your talents, your passions, and your purpose? Where do you even start? What if you just DON’T KNOW?

These are some of the questions I’ve asked myself, but there comes a time when you just have to stop thinking and just do (with intentionality of course). Something will manifest.

We’d love to hear more about your organization.
The name of my organization is called Our Mothers and US, or “OMUS” for short.  We encourage knowledge-sharing, self-advocacy, and self-care among Black women and families before, during, and after pregnancy to promote healthy transitions into parenting.  Within the community we host creative expression workshops, conduct small research projects, and participate in local outreach events. OMUS first began as a social media campaign project in April 2018 in participation of Black Maternal Health Week (#BMHW18) put on by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance of Atlanta, GA.  When I first heard about #BMHW18 I sought out ways to get involved with them, but I realized I was tired of “asking” other entities and organizations to take me in on their projects, initiatives, etc. – so I said, “you know what, forget this. Imma just do my own thing” (laughs).  I’m proud of myself for that. Since then, OMUS has developed into an organization where topics about maternal and child health, parenthood, pregnancy, and social health and well-being are explored and discussed across the valley.

What were you like growing up?
I was always creating/organizing things like mini “programs”…pretending. I remember in 5th grade some friends and I informally started a “self-defense class” that would be held during recess (don’t ask me why! Haha). I made a flyer and everything. I remember making time capsules with my friends, playing American Idol, I was on a step/dance team (in 1st or 2nd grade, I think) when I lived in South Phoenix. I LOVED show and tell, spirit weeks, things like that. It was a way to express yourself, show your creativity. I was into the arts, never sports. In high school, I took art classes, theater, was in plays, took piano, in fashion club. Before vlogging/blogging was popular, I used to send my friends a “Binx’s (that’s my nickname) Tip of the Day” text which would be random beauty or life tips. Just for fun. I’ve always enjoyed my English classes growing up as well- I actually liked writing papers, learning new vocabulary words. Personality-wise, I was reserved and to myself at times (probably an only-child thing), but I also had a very social side. I always had a lot of friends, very diverse friends at that. Good times, good times…

Contact Info:

• Website: ourmothersandus.com
• Phone: 480-290-6119
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @ourmothersandus

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