In this powerful episode of Rebelle Stories, we sit down with April Louis, a woman whose life’s work exists at the intersection of education, political science, and grassroots health advocacy. As a secondary-level educator and the Co-Founder of Iyanola Wombmanhood, April is on a mission to dismantle the taboos surrounding women’s reproductive health in Saint Lucia.

April opens up about her personal journey living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), revealing how a personal diagnosis transformed her from an academic into a fierce advocate for women’s health. We explore the “politics of the body,” discussing how her background in Political Science helps her navigate the systemic challenges women face when seeking compassionate care in the Caribbean.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Classroom as a Catalyst: How April’s 10 years in education help her empower the next generation of self-advocates.

• Breaking the PCOS Stigma: The reality of living with a chronic hormonal condition and why informed advocacy is a form of rebellion.

• Iyanola Wombmanhood: The vital work being done in Saint Lucia to provide reproductive health education and create safe spaces for women.

• A Letter to the Past: What April would tell her 10-year-old self about the “Rebelle” leader she has become.

Whether you are a “Cyster” navigating your own health journey, an educator looking to inspire, or a woman finding your voice, April’s story is a masterclass in turning lived experience into a movement for change.

Featured Guest:

April Louis is the Vice-President of Iyanola Wombmanhood and an educator at Vieux-Fort Comprehensive Secondary School. She holds a Masters in Political Science and is a passionate advocate for reproductive justice and cultural awareness.

If you’ve been affected by the themes discussed in today’s episode, or if you want to support the movement for reproductive health advocacy, please explore the following resources:

🇱🇨 Local Saint Lucian Resources

• Iyanola Wombmanhood: Follow the organization for local advocacy, education, and community events focused on reproductive health in Saint Lucia.

Instagram: discoveringapril_

Facebook/Instagram/LinkedIn: Iyanola_Wombmanhood

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