We are pleased to announce that Mahat Abdullahi, Prevention Network Manager, at United Way of Northwest Vermont, is one of 40 winners under the age of 40 of Vermont Business Magazine’s Rising Stars recognition award. Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges for their commitment to business growth, professional excellence, and involvement in their communities.

Mahat, 28, is an Airman of the Vermont National Guard as a Drug Demand Reduction Civil Operations Specialist. He joined United Way’s staff in 2022, in a partnership with VTNG, to assist with the Northwest Vermont Prevention Network. The role of the network is to establish a framework for people and organizations to come together creating a holistic and comprehensive approach to preventing substance misuse and promoting wellbeing.

Mahat not only supports the improvement of youth lives through his professional career, but he also puts in the time outside of work as an Assistant Coach of the BHS Boys Varsity team and an Under-14 Girls coach for Burlington Football Club. He is dedicated to creating supportive third spaces in our community for youth to gain skills and empower themselves.

Mahat believes: “Prevention is so much more than telling young people to ‘just say no to drugs,’ it’s about making sure people of all ages have access to the resources and supportive relationships they need to live healthy, purpose-driven lives.”

Congratulations, Mahat! You are a Rising Star indeed!

Learn more about the Prevention Network.