Amanda (Manga) Penwell CDM, CPM, MSM

From a young age Amanda, who goes by Manga, loved pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding.  As one of 7 kids, she saw the process played out in a way that made it a wonderful and fulfilling part of life.  Her mother did not instill a fear of birth, but let her be a part of it as the normal part of life that it is.  This is Manga’s foundation for knowing that birth is a normal and wonderful piece of family life.

Manga started her midwifery journey at 18.  She attended midwifery school and was grateful that women graciously allowed her to be a part of their births.  She learned that women are strong and birth works!  Since then, she has continuously worked as a midwife both in the US and oversees.  She has enjoyed her journey.

Manga has now returned to Fairbanks with her husband, Zak, and her two children.  Both of Manga’s children were born at home with midwives.  Manga and Zak were married 12 years ago in Fairbanks and left to travel the world. They are so excited to be home and to be raising their kids in Fairbanks.  They look forward to many years of serving and being a part of this wonderful community.

Carreer Highlights

  • Licensed midwife since 1998
  • Lived in the Philippines for 3 years working as the co-director of a charity birth center and training midwives
  • Approved preceptor for the National College of Midwifery and Mercy in Action College of Midwifery
  • Certified Professional Midwife since 2004
  • Previously a Washington State licensed midwife
  • Currently a commissioner for the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers (CABC)

Education

  •  Associate of Arts from the National College of Midwifery 1998  This was accomplished while dual enrolled with Mercy in Action College of Midwifery, an apprenticeship style education model.
  • Bachelor of Science from the National College of Midwifery 2013
  • Master of Science from the National College of Midwifery 2013
  • Regularly participates in continuing education by attending conferences and training relevant to midwifery

Certifications

  • Alaska Board Certified Direct Entry Midwife (CDM)
  • Licensed midwife through the state of New Mexico
  • Certified Professional Midwife through the North American Registry of Midwives
  • Current Ongoing Certifications: CPR, Neonatal Resuscitation Program, IV Therapy and Medications