What’s in the doctor´s bag of Shamsa and Hawa - Midwives and sisters

1.  Let’s get straight to it: what’s in your VanVeer?

What isn’t in there? Our doppler, stethoscope, cord-cutting set, delivery kit, gel, blood pressure monitor, gloves, laptop or tablet, oximeter, ID cards, hand gel, notepad, pens, plasters… and we’re probably forgetting something. Our VanVeers are basically mini clinics on the go!

2. How did the design of your VanVeer come to life?

Shamsa: I was completely inspired by VanVeer itself. I saw so many beautiful designs on Instagram. I focused on the bags I personally found the most beautiful and used that to shape my own style.

Hawa: I designed my bag together with Vera during a Private Design Session. That way, we could create something that really felt like me. I’d already played around with the 3D Design Tool, so I secretly knew what I wanted. But with Vera, we added the final finishing touches. I still get compliments on it all the time.

3. What new VanVeer item should definitely exist?

A phone pouch with a cord, 100 percent. It’s ideal during busy shifts so you don’t lose your phone. And a beautiful, sturdy laptop sleeve would be very welcome too.

4. Tell us a little about yourselves

We are Shamsa and Hawa, sisters and both practicing midwives. We are two years apart: Shamsa is the older one, Hawa the younger one. We both completed our studies at the ´Hogeschool van Rotterdam´ and partly work in the same practices. It’s always nice to bump into each other there or do a handover together. Although we also always call each other in between, haha.

By the way, most clients don’t know that we are sisters. We often get the comment: “Huh, are you sisters?!” We are really two different individuals, and that’s what makes it extra nice to consult with each other. It often leads to new ideas and insights.

In addition to our work in midwifery, we love to enjoy life to the fullest: walking, good food, spending time with family and friends, space for our faith, and time for self-care.

5.  How did ShamHawaVerlos come to life?

People are often fascinated that we chose the same career path. We get so many questions about the job, our experiences, and what it’s like working together as sisters. That’s how the idea started to share glimpses of our lives online, as midwives and sisters.

6. If you could change one thing in the world of midwifery, what would it be?

That every woman feels truly seen, heard, and supported during her birth. Not as a patient, but as a powerful human being at the center of her own unique birth story. With space for her voice, her rhythm, her choices. Birth isn’t something that happens to her, but with her.

7. What drives you to do this work?

Because giving birth is so much more than a medical event. It’s intimate, transformative, magical. We want every woman to feel held and supported during that deeply vulnerable moment. That’s why we do what we do.

8. One thing that instantly makes your day better?

A beautiful birth. Or beautiful weather. Or both. Can we say both?

9. Any future plans you’re dreaming of?

We’re both super ambitious and full of fun ideas. We want to do so much more. Curious? Come follow us on Instagram or TikTok. That’s where you’ll find our vlogs from our trip to Somalia too.

10. And lastly, what message would you share with future midwives?

Midwifery school can be tough, and there may be moments where you doubt yourself. But trust us, you were accepted for a reason. You’ve come so far already. The mirror this journey holds up isn’t always easy to look into, but it helps you grow, both as a midwife and as a human. Dare to fall. Dare to learn. And please, be kind to yourself. Wisdom begins in wonder.

Shamsa and Hawa are sisters and midwives, a golden combo if you ask us. They share more than just a profession: they share a mission to help women feel empowered during one of the most special moments of their lives. You can follow them at @shamhawaverlos on Instagram and TikTok, where they share glimpses of their work and life. 

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Want to design your own doctor’s bag just like Shamsa and Hawa? Find out how it works here or click here to jump straight into the 3D-Design Tool.