Tatyana Ali, best known for her role in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” is making headlines for more than just her acting skills.
The actress is opening up about her journey in raising her two sons and her unwavering commitment to raising awareness for Black maternal health through her quilt line, Baby Yams, and various partnerships.
In a recent interview with People, Ali shared insights into her latest Baby Yams release—a limited-edition series of handmade, heirloom-quality baby quilts.
These quilts, designed by Ali, have a profound mission: 100% of the proceeds are donated to Black and Indigenous midwives and doulas.
Ali also touched on the subject of empowerment for Black women and families and the importance for them to take control of their health and wellness.
As a mother to two boys, Alejandro Vaughn, 4, and Edward “Aszi,” 7, Ali expresses her joy in watching her sons thrive.
“My boys, they’re in school. My little one is about to start kindergarten. They’re kids who are into learning—learning to read, learning to play the piano. They’re really happy boys. I have so much fun with them as a family,” she says.
Reflecting on the upcoming summer break, Ali adds with a laugh:
“I think I have more senioritis than the kids. I’m ready for summer break. I want to just wake up in my pajamas with my babies and play all day and make pancakes for dinner.”
Her sons are not only familiar with Ali’s talents but also understand her profession.
“We actually watched the Abbott Elementary episodes together,” she says, referencing her guest appearances on the show. “They understand. I also do auditions from home and put out an independent music album last Christmas. They definitely know Mommy’s a performer, but to them, it’s just my job.”
Ali’s passion extends beyond her acting career. Bringing Baby Yams’ quilts to life is a heartfelt endeavor.
“It’s such a dream come true, seeing the quilts out in the world and not just in my head,” she shares.
Ali has been an advocate for Black maternal health for nearly five years, a mission sparked by her own traumatic experience during the birth of her first son, Edward.
Ali’s advocacy work has taken her to Washington D.C., where she testified before Congress about the need to address the Black maternal health crisis. Now, through Baby Yams, she aims to fund impactful initiatives:
“I’m at the point where I’ve shared my story. I’ve helped ring the alarm bells. I know that more midwives and doulas and access to them is what we need right now.”
Sewing, a longtime hobby for Ali, inspired her to create baby quilts, starting with one for her younger son, Alejandro. The positive response to her first collection, launched during Black Maternal Health Week, motivated her to continue.
The latest collection, in partnership with the Birth Future Foundation, aims to fund scholarships for Black and Indigenous midwifery students.
Ali has also partnered with She’s Good [For Real], an online health space for Black women. She believes in the power of community and the importance of accessible health information.
“We find our communities—at the park, on social media, or through others—to find the answers that we need,” she says.
As an advocate and a mother, Ali hopes to inspire other moms to engage in issues that matter most:
“We have to do it. Civil society is where the power is. Women and families have so much power. We can take care of each other.”
Looking ahead, Ali is excited about spending the summer with her family and continuing her professional endeavors:
“Professionally, I’m on a high from Abbott. It was such an extraordinary experience. And of course, Baby Yams—we’re putting out our next new batch of blankets on Father’s Day. The colors remind me of summer camp when I was a kid. I’m excited to put that out.”
With her dedication to her family, her craft, and her advocacy, Tatyana Ali continues to inspire and make a significant impact both on and off the screen.
