The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) have awarded the IBCLC Care Award to The BestFeeding Club in recognition of its dedication to professional care standards in lactation services.
The organization is described as a standout provider in the field, earning the award for employing professionals holding the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credential, which is regarded as the gold standard in breastfeeding support. In addition to staffing qualified professionals, The BestFeeding Club completed a range of activities dedicated to protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding. These initiatives formed a critical component of the award evaluation, demonstrating that the club actively advances breastfeeding-friendly practices beyond merely employing certified staff.
Global Recognition of Lactation Excellence
The IBCLC credential is the leading internationally recognized certification for professional lactation services. IBCLCs work across diverse settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, clinics, public health agencies, private practices, community organizations, government agencies, and research institutions. They focus on preventive care, offering guidance during pregnancy to help initiate breastfeeding successfully. Their support continues after birth, helping families overcome challenges, providing accurate information, and assisting with returning to work or school. They also support families with twins or sick or premature infants, and help train nursing staff in basic breastfeeding care.
Leadership Perspectives
Neelam Jawad, Chair of the Board of Directors of IBLCE, highlighted the profound impact of certified lactation consultants. "IBCLCs bring skilled, compassionate care to families during some of their most vulnerable moments," Jawad said. "They provide more than clinical support, offering reassurance, confidence, and compassion when it matters most. We proudly recognize and deeply appreciate the CARE Award recipients for the heartfelt difference they make every day."
Maxine Scringer-Wilkes BN, MN, RN, IBCLC, President of ILCA, congratulated the 2026 IBCLC Care Award recipients. "We are grateful for your continued commitment to promoting, supporting, and protecting breastfeeding through the employment of IBCLCs," Scringer-Wilkes said. "Investment in skilled lactation care to carry out innovative initiatives and training strengthens the continuation of family-centered care from hospital through community."
Global Reach of IBCLC Professionals
According to data from IBLCE, there are currently nearly over 38,000 IBCLC professionals practicing in 136 countries worldwide. The IBCLC certification program is accredited by the NCCA, the accreditation arm of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence. NCCA accreditation represents a mark of quality and excellence for professional certification programs.
