By Brittany Amalfi

Berlin Awach believes that public health is more than a profession; it’s a way to bring communities together and empower young people to shape their own futures.

As this month’s staff spotlight, Awach is making an impact in schools and across the broader community. With a background in public health and a focus on epidemiology, she leads prevention initiatives at the high school and middle school levels while also working with families and local partners to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce risk factors.

Her impact reaches far beyond the schools. Awach facilitates the Decisions At Every Turn (DAET) stakeholder meetings, bringing together community members, educators, and local leaders to address substance use prevention. Through these efforts, she emphasizes collaboration, data-driven strategies, and, perhaps most importantly, youth involvement.

“My favorite part is making sure youth voices are heard and reflected in our work,” Awach said. “I enjoy supporting young people in turning their ideas into action.”

Originally from Nairobi, Kenya, Awach did not grow up in the Ashland, Massachusetts area, but she quickly found a connection to the community. She said she was drawn to the town’s strong commitment to prevention and to the team's passion at Prevention & Human Services.

“I saw a group that was deeply invested in supporting youth and creating meaningful, lasting impact,” she said. “That commitment to collaboration is what made me want to be part of the team.”

In her role, no two days look exactly the same. From sharing prevention messages on social media to meeting with community partners and leading school-based initiatives, Awach’s schedule really shows the wide scope of her work. She says the variety keeps things engaging and rewarding.

What stands out most to her, however, is the sense of collaboration within the Ashland community.

“There is a shared commitment to supporting youth and improving community well-being,” she said. “That support makes a big difference in the work we do.”

One moment that especially resonated with Awach came when two members of the Ashland High School Youth Prevention Council visited the Massachusetts State House to speak with legislators about the alcohol excise tax. Watching students confidently advocate for change left a lasting impression.

“It was incredibly inspiring,” she said. “It reinforced the importance of youth leadership and what young people can accomplish when they’re given the opportunity.”

That belief in youth empowerment is central to Awach’s approach. By ensuring that students have a voice in prevention efforts, she helps create programs that aren’t just effective but also meaningful to those they are designed to support.

Outside of her professional work, Awach has a creative side as well. In her free time, she enjoys playing the violin, a hobby she says helps her relax and recharge.

Through her work at Prevention & Human Services, Awach is helping to build a healthier, more connected Ashland. By focusing on early prevention, education, and strong partnerships, she and her colleagues are creating an environment where individuals feel supported and empowered to make positive choices.

“By engaging youth, families, and community partners, we help create a supportive environment that promotes well-being,” she said.

Araya Landry, Director of the Department of Prevention and Human Services, expressed, “How grateful we are to have Berlin as part of our Department of Prevention and Human Services. Her commitment to prevention work and creating impact in the Ashland community is felt throughout our programs. She is an invaluable member of our team and is always available to help out and participate in a variety of initiatives and projects.” 

As this month’s staff spotlight, Awach represents the kind of dedication and passion that continues to strengthen the Ashland community—one connection and one conversation at a time.