Petronella Lunda

I am, a dedicated midwife specialist, lecturer, and researcher with a strong passion for perinatal support for women and midwives. My expertise lies in compassionate midwifery, respectful maternity care, and evidence-based practice, and I am committed to advancing woman-centered care in maternal health services.

As an academic, I play a pivotal role in mentoring students and emerging researchers, helping them navigate the complexities of midwifery education and practice. I am particularly invested in improving the quality of midwifery training through well-structured lesson plans and scholarly contributions.

My research focuses on promoting respectful maternity care through interventions. I am currently part of an international working group exploring research justice and injustice in Sexual, Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (SRMNC), with the aim of influencing ethical and equitable healthcare practices. Another collaboration that I am involved with is the International Research Network for Compassionate Midwifery (IRNCM).

My academic journey is deeply rooted in education, mentorship, and community engagement, particularly within South Africa’s healthcare landscape. I actively contribute to the professional development of midwives and healthcare providers, advocating for the integration of evidence-based interventions to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes through research.

Beyond research and teaching, my broader mission is to make a lasting impact in academia and society. I believe in shaping the future of midwifery through innovative education, strong mentorship, and meaningful scholarly contributions through research publication, ensuring that both women and midwives receive the support and care they deserve.