Meet Natosha Sage-el Bylsma | International Board Certified Lactation Consultant & Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natosha Sage-el Bylsma and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natosha, what principle do you value most?
For me it is all about listening! Even as an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) I have struggled to breastfeed my baby and process my pregnancy and birth. I know that during those early postpartum days the best thing is to have someone to share your story with. So I try to always give my clients space to share their story with me, whatever it is they need to share about their perinatal journey.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Becoming a mom really opened my eyes to the importance of lactation support, and that’s when I knew I wanted to help other families navigate their breastfeeding journeys. What sets me apart, I think, is my deep commitment to making sure that support is accessible to everyone, no matter their background or financial situation. That’s why I run a nonprofit, Next Generation Family Services, and thanks to donations and grants, we’re able to cover the cost of appointments for families who need it most. Whether they’re on Medicaid, WIC, EBT, or identify as a person of color, or just ask for assistance, we’re here to help.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been all smooth sailing. There have been times when I’ve had to make some pretty tough sacrifices. But I kept pushing because I knew how important this work was. And honestly, the payoff has been so rewarding. In the past year, I’ve had the privilege of providing free lactation services to 50 families, helping them meet their breastfeeding goals. It’s a reminder that even when it feels hard, it’s always worth it in the end.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, if my best friend were visiting, we’d definitely eat our way through the best spots around here! We’d start the day with a delicious breakfast at either People’s Kitchen or Good Truckin’ Diner, or maybe grab a sweet treat at Sweet Encounter Bakery and Cafe or Strange Matter. After that, we’d probably stroll around Old Town for some shopping, or hang out at my favorite bookstore, Deadtime Stories. I’d also make sure to take her to a few of my favorite Black-owned businesses, like Socialight Society or Clover Joy. We’d definitely grab some desserts, Everything is Cheesecake and Cravings Popcorn are must-visits. For lunch, Bread Bites in Okemos, or MEAT in Old Town.

I’m not the outdoorsy type, but if there’s a local event happening, we’d probably check it out for a little fun. I’m all about good conversation, so we’d be in places where we could just hang out and catch up, but I’d be sure to mix in some local culture too. Oh, I got an amazing massage at True North Wellness MI, and I’m always down for some pampering.

For dinner, we’d hit up Ohana for all-you-can-eat sushi, get some Crack Chicken on Edgewood Blvd, or maybe head over to the Horrocks Beer Garden for great food and live music, or Aldacos for amazing tacos. All in all, it would be about good vibes, amazing food, and soaking up everything this area has to offer!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I honestly feel so fortunate to have such a strong support system. My family, especially my husband and kids, have been absolute champs. They totally understand that my work, helping families with breastfeeding and lactation support, doesn’t stop at 5 PM. There are times when I miss family activities or have to be away, but they always support me. So, I want to give a big shoutout to them!

But I also can’t forget about my incredible friends. They’ve been there through thick and thin, offering love, encouragement, and even practical help when things get tough. Whether it’s cheering me on, helping with my kids when I’m busy, or just being a sounding board, they’re such an important part of my journey. I feel like my success is definitely a reflection of the village that surrounds me, and I’m beyond grateful for them all.

Website: https://nextgenfamilyservices.org

Instagram: @nextgenfamilyservices

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nextgenerationfamilyservices/