The Conference included expert-led sessions on critical topics during pregnancy and breastfeeding, including managing medication during lactation, the power of skin-to-skin contact for breastfeeding success and enhancing maternal-infant bonding, and the role of nutrition and composition of breastmilk to meet infants' needs and health. It also included parents’ perspectives and their experiences, highlighting the continued need for supporting mothers during breastfeeding.

The regional conference highlights the significance of regional collaboration and knowledge exchange. By bringing together experts and students from different countries, we gain new insights into best practices for supporting mothers and healthcare professionals in their pursuit of supporting child development - Dr. Ali Asgary, University of York, Director of CIFAL York

The Breastfeeding Education Conference takes place annually and is designed to offer learning and training opportunities to increase breastfeeding uptake through initiation and duration rates, raise awareness among healthcare professionals, mothers and provide support for breastfeeding mothers at home, in healthcare settings, workplaces, and within the broader community. Experts from distinguished universities and healthcare centres across Ireland, Belgium, and the United Kingdom presented research and best practices for students and practitioners.

The practical exercises and evidence-based approaches empower participants to take action. By providing upskilling and knowledge, they are equipped as leaders to educate their communities on optimal breast-feeding practices - Dr. Maleknaz Nayebi, University of York, Associate Director of CIFAL York

On day two, the Training of Trainers (ToT) Workshop hosted 42 healthcare professionals in an engaging session to practice breastfeeding techniques, facilitating peer-to-peer discussions, and methods for maternal-infant bonding.  

Prof. Allison Cummins, Head of Midwifery of the University of Newcastle in Australia, presented The Magic Drop: Supporting Mothers along the Journey and offered valuable insights on creating inclusive prenatal services to provide holistic support for mothers and their infants.  Breastfeeding rates in Australia are high, with 69% of babies receiving breastmilk at 4 months of age. 

Support is vital. Breastfeeding is not always possible and not always easy. This conference and training workshop is an important part of supporting women and infants through these critical early months, and CIFAL Newcastle is proud to be a part of helping make that happen - Dr. Brodie Beales, University of Newcastle, Director of CIFAL Newcastle.

The ToT Workshop was designed to provide a deeper understanding of the science behind breastfeeding, the impact of breastmilk and breastfeeding on the health of mothers and infants, and the main structural and individual challenges facing women regarding initiating and continuing breastfeeding.

It was a delight to participate in the UNITAR’s Regional Conference on Breastfeeding Education and Training of Trainers. I’m excited about CIFAL Surrey’s ability to work with the Breastfeeding Education Initiative (BFEI), and our own inhouse expertise in midwifery from the University of Surrey’s Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, and associated stakeholders to build a genuine community of practice to support transformative approaches to encouraging breastfeeding, based on awareness raising, outreach and enhanced training, as well as incorporating national and regional perspectives into the already well-established training provided by UNITAR and CIFAL Surrey - Dr. Amelia Hadfield, Executive-Vice Chancellor of External Engagement; Co-Director for Institute of Sustainability, University of Surrey; Director of CIFAL Surrey.

Breastfeeding plays a vital role in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and is linked to many of the Sustainable Development Goals. Breastfeeding is linked to better nutrition, health and greater well-being for children and mothers.

UNITAR’s Breastfeeding Education Initiative is dedicated to supporting and empowering women by enhancing their practical knowledge, skills, and confidence in breastfeeding. Through training and education, the Initiative seeks to protect, promote, and support optimal infant and young child feeding. Ms. Estrella Merlos, Head, Breastfeeding Education Global Initiative

Mrs. Vicki Blackman, Lead of Breastfeeding Education Global Initiative, coordinated the initiative, supporting key stakeholders and incorporating the subject experts’ evidence-based curricula for the conference and workshop. The Breastfeeding Education Conference and Training of Trainers Workshop demonstrated the power of collaboration in advancing breastfeeding education and support. By bringing together experts, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, the event reinforced the importance of evidence-based training and regional cooperation to improve breastfeeding outcomes. The insights shared and skills developed during these sessions will continue to shape policies and practices that support mothers, infants, and healthcare systems globally.

Breastfeeding is such a powerful tool for building healthier societies. It was an honour to share knowledge and learn from all the incredible participants in the room. By equipping healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders with the necessary knowledge and tools, we are fostering a culture where breastfeeding is recognised, supported, and protected as a fundamental right. The impact of these efforts extends far beyond individual families—it strengthens communities, enhances public health, and contributes to a more sustainable and equitable world. We look forward to the ripple effect this will have in shaping future generations. – Ms. Vicki Blackman, Lead, Breastfeeding Education Global Initiative