PENNIE BUMRUNGSIRI

Pennie Bumrungsiri, MSc, LM, CPM, Clinical Services Director at Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Hawaii, began her midwifery journey in South Africa, where she supported rural health efforts among intergenerational communities. There, she came to understand that a midwife is more than a birth attendant — she is a confidant, a keeper of stories, and a steady presence through every stage of life.

Since 2012, Pennie has provided maternity and breastfeeding support across six international and cultural settings, honoring the distinct traditions and wisdom of each community she serves. Now based in Hawai‘i, she continues this work by meeting families where they are—through home visits, mobile clinic vans, and community spaces. Her approach is deeply person-centered, affirming each client’s story, challenges, and triumphs with compassion and care.

Pennie finds her deepest fulfillment in bearing witness to the courage of families as they birth, feed, and nurture the next generation. She is particularly passionate about supporting families as they navigate social and structural barriers. “Whether supporting families experiencing homelessness, accessing harm reduction services, or healing from trauma,” she shares, “I am honored to advocate fiercely for their needs, holding space for dignity, hope, and healing in every stage of their journey.”

Through her experiences, Pennie shares, “Breastfeeding is an ancient wisdom and a living act of love, offering nourishment, connection, and resilience for mothers, infants, and families. By supporting and advocating for breastfeeding, we strengthen the roots of thriving communities and honor the sacred journey of life.”

Pennie has recently connected with CHAMPS National, collaborating with enrolled sites in Hawai‘i, providing critical community follow-up, and presenting at CHAMPS webinars. We are honored to recognize her as our newest CHAMPion of the Week!