Souad Dreyfus of Open Arms Surrogacy

Moms to Know: Souad Dreyfus

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Dreams do come true in the United States of America, and Souad Dreyfus’ life work is proof of this. As the founder of Open Arms Surrogacy, she works with individuals and couples from all over the world with big plans and high hopes of creating a family.

Through innovative reproductive technologies, favorable surrogacy laws and generous gestational carriers and egg donors, Souad guides people from across the globe on their path to parenthood.

Moms to Know: Souad Dreyfus

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With two children of her own, this local mom has followed a calling of connecting the most selfless women with the most optimistic mothers and fathers through the birth dates of some of the most wished for babies.

 

Over 20 years ago, you created something that changes lives every single day. Tell us how you became interested in surrogacy and how Open Arms came to be.

Souad Dreyfus: Over 20 years ago, my story took a transformative turn when I crossed paths with a fertility specialist who recruited me to work with him. This opportunity exposed me to the intimate, emotional journeys of countless individuals and couples striving to become parents.

Witnessing their struggles, their resilience, and ultimately, the transformative joy of parenthood achieved through egg donation and surrogacy, ignited a deep passion in me to support others on this profound journey. So in 2003, I parted ways with the clinical side of this process and started Open Arms Surrogacy.

 

With so many babies born year after year, your career must be full of so much joy! Please share your favorite memories with us.

Souad Dreyfus: The journey of surrogacy/egg donation has been an avenue of incredible joy not just for the parents but equally for me. Each successful birth is a profound reminder of why we do what we do. Among my cherished memories is witnessing parents meet their baby for the first time.

The overwhelming happiness and tears of joy never fail to reinforce the beautiful impact of our work. These moments, filled with pure love and gratitude, are what I hold dear from my career.

 

How do you get connected with potential surrogates or families seeking surrogacy?

Souad Dreyfus: Often through word of mouth, which is my favorite because it reflects the trust and satisfaction of those we’ve worked with. Additionally, we receive many referrals from fertility specialists and OBGYNs and maintain a strong online presence, ensuring we’re accessible to families worldwide.

We engage actively on social media, which has become a crucial platform for connecting with new clients and sharing the successes of our surrogates and families.

 

In what ways do you see current legislation directly affecting your business/clients?

Souad Dreyfus: Current legislation, particularly regarding reproductive and abortion laws, directly affects our clients and the decisions they face. We strive to navigate these challenges by providing informed, supportive and adaptable services to ensure that every family can make the best decisions for their circumstances.

Although the legal environment can be complex, our commitment to our clients’ rights and choices remains unwavering.

 

As a thought leader, business mentor, and industry expert, what is next for you and for your company?

Souad Dreyfus: Looking ahead, my primary goal remains to serve and support families, egg donors and surrogates with the highest level of care and integrity. The private and sensitive nature of fertility struggles demands nothing less.

I am committed to continuously enhancing our services and outreach, ensuring that more families can experience the joy of parenthood through third party reproduction.

 

Talk to us about moving a child to college this semester. How has your transition been, and what does that adjustment look like?

Souad Dreyfus: Sending my daughter off to college has been a bittersweet transition. While Tallahassee isn’t too far, the adjustment to her independence has been both challenging and rewarding.

Despite the distance, our bond remains strong through frequent calls, texts and visits. It’s thrilling to watch her grow and navigate her own path, although the parental instinct to protect and guide is ever-present

 

When your daughter is in town, what are your favorite things to do in Tampa Bay with her and your son?

Souad Dreyfus: My daughter is a foodie, so when she is in town, exploring new spots in Tampa is our favorite activity. Last time we went to Cats and Caffeine and that was particularly memorable. How could it not be with the playful company of cute kittens?

Learn More about Open Arms Surrogacy

 

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Originally published in the December 2024 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.