The Global Centre for Lactation Training (GCLT) ™ aims to create a place that will serve the world and support the vision of IBLCE for years to come. The Centre will be making available a variety of credentialing products, services, and programming designed with a global perspective to meet a variety of professional goals and needs. It is our hope that the Centre, along with IBLCE’s other affiliated organisation, MILCC, will enhance access to a diverse audience of lactation professionals.
Norma O. Escobar, IBCLC, FILCA
Director of Training and Special Initiatives
Hailing originally from Mexico City, Mexico, Escobar entered the lactation field through volunteer leadership in a host of roles with La Leche League International, including as an accredited leader, trainer, translator, interpreter, and regional administrator for Latin America. In 2002, she earned the IBCLC and provided lactation consultation services in a diversity of practice settings: community, corporate, governmental, and nonprofit. In 2007, she assumed a position with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) for New Hanover County, North Carolina, rising to the position of Regional Breastfeeding Coordinator, providing training for peer counsellors, peer counsellor managers, and healthcare providers. Escobar also served on the IBLCE Board of Directors, including as Chair from 2019 to 2020. In 2022, the independent professional association, the International Lactation Consultants Association® (ILCA® ), recognised Escobar as a Fellow for her significant professional achievements as a leader and mentor in the lactation field.
Yolande Lawson, RN, MPH(N), BSc, BScN, IBCLC
Yolande Lawson, a Registered Nurse (BScN) with a Master’s degree in Public Health and IBCLC since 2008, joins the Centre with extensive experience in Community and Public Health. With over 25 years in public health and health promotion, Yolande has successfully built partnerships with regional, provincial, and national organisations.
Yolande’s expertise includes developing health educational curriculum, materials, and conducting training workshops. She has worked with communities across Ontario and northern Canada, including remote Indigenous areas.
Her involvement on local, provincial, and national committees has provided invaluable insights and guidance to hospitals, public health units, and community health centres seeking Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI) accreditation. As a Director at Large on the Breastfeeding Committee for Canada, she contributes to national breastfeeding initiatives.
Fully bilingual in English and French, Yolande identifies as an Indigenous woman, bringing a deep appreciation for Indigenous culture and needs.