Lorna Owens is a true inspiration to the women of the world. As a nurse, midwife, life coach, motivational speaker, author, talk show host, and an attorney, she has touched the lives of many by reaching out to those in need.

Originally from Jamaica, Lorna knew that she wanted to be a lawyer since the age of 12. Her mother, however, told her that lawyers do not go to heaven, so she decided to become a nurse. Nevertheless, Lorna still carved her way through university obtaining several degrees, including one in law.

Her most current project is the Footprints Foundation, which was founded in 2011. Its mission is to improve the life expectancy of mothers and infants in the DR Congo. The question here is, “Why the DR Congo?”

After having watched a CNN report on the DR Congo and learning about the numerous violent rapes that occur in this African country, Lorna was determined to find a way to help.

She actually traveled to the DR Congo this September 2011, and said it was “Life changing.” She discovered that so many women die right after giving birth, and a majority of the newborns do not even survive. In fact, the Footprints Foundation program will provide proper training for the midwives and traditional birth attendants of Congo. She plans to travel this July to the DR Congo with a group of nurses to begin the 3-week long training sessions. Her goal is to have these training sessions take place at least three times a year. This is Owens’ way of giving back to the African community, and what better way to help others than with something you do best.

As a woman who plays so many roles, time must always be an issue, but Owens says that it can all be done. “I just live in the moment, ” Owens explained while smiling.

By Alyzee Laroche