MARYLAND, USA — A Maryland woman seeking community post-pregnancy decided to create her own when she noticed a gap in the market.
Every Monday, Gilly Shaw clocks out of her 9-to-5 to join a community of mothers she helped bring together to host Momish Monday’s over on Instagram. Shaw interviews mothers with the mission of creating a safe space for them to share their motherhood journey.
A space Shaw wishes she had after giving birth.
“When I was 10 days postpartum I started posting on social media. I could barely walk up the steps. Why does it feel like I’ve been hit by a bus? Is this normal?” Shaw said.
Before Shaw began interviewing other mothers, she was just sharing her story and experiences on her Instagram account. After months of posting about her journey, Shaw began discovering other mothers with similar stories and wanted to share them.
“We started having these conversations and I’m like, I would love to interview y’all individually to really hear y’all’s stories” Shaw said.
Stories like Asha Kabirou, “It was a moment to not only to be seen, but to also share my perspective about what motherhood looks like and to be an encouragement.” Kabirou continued “If people don’t know what you’re going through, how can they support you? A lot of times the people around us have no idea what we’re going through.”
Momish Monday took on a life of its own and soon Gilly expanded her community into “Nu Momish” a community supporting moms through all stages of motherhood. Nu Momish provides resources, services, and hosts Momish Meetups for moms across the DMV.
“We try to keep them really small just so we can have that intimate experience and ask them like how are you doing today?” Shaw said.
Nu Momish even hosts social events for moms, like a sunset boat party coming up. For more information click here.
“I think it’s important for everyone to know that every mom needs a village on demand, and she may not ever ask for it. Just asking her is she ok is like a big step.” Shaw said.