Both the personal and professional experiences of Alisha Pereira makes her perfect for her new role as the maternity concierge at Epworth Freemasons.
Alisha, who started in the role in January, is a familiar face at Victoria Parade. For the last four years, she has worked as a practice manager for an obstetrics, gynaecology and IVF practice on Level 1. In all, she has had 16 years as a practice manager in various medical fields.
Alisha initially wanted to help deliver babies herself.
"I always wanted to be a midwife and I did some nursing training, didn't finish. My life took a different path," Alisha said.
"That's what makes this role even more lovely. I get to experience the pregnancy journey with families without the clinical side. I get to chat with mums and cuddle babies."
Recently, Alisha was able to watch a pregnancy from beginning to end – at first in her previous role as a practice manager and then as the Epworth maternity concierge.
"I recently saw one of the mums on the ward with her newly born little boy. I had met her when she was undergoing IVF, then saw her throughout her pregnancy. It was so special to see the whole journey play out."
Added to her professional experience, Alisha understands being a parent. She is a busy mum of four.
I have given birth in both a public and private setting, so I understand the differences between both options and understand the nerves of being a new parent.
"Every baby is different too. I never would have thought I'd end up in sleep school with my fourth child. I'd never been before but had to go twice with that one!"
As the maternity concierge Alisha is available to answer all and any questions from families expecting a baby and practice managers with queries.
"I am the first port of call and get lots of questions around our facilities or for tours. If I don't have the answer, I'll be able to direct them to someone who does," she said.
"A good day at work for me is where I have made a difference or made parents feel comfortable or more relaxed. No matter what number baby someone is having, it's always daunting so I'm here to answer all questions."
